Bird strikes at Nigeria’s Lagos airport are rising, grounding flights and causing losses, prompting safety measures.

Bird strikes are escalating at Nigerian airports, especially Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos, where over 70% of incidents occur, prompting airlines like Air Peace and United Nigeria Airlines to ground aircraft, cancel flights, and incur major losses. United Nigeria Airlines reported four such incidents since January 2026, including two planes struck within 24 hours. Black kites are a primary threat, particularly at night, due to the airport’s proximity to residential areas. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is deploying noise deterrents, conducting bird studies, and improving habitat management to reduce risks. Airlines and FAAN are collaborating on safety, maintenance, and infrastructure upgrades to address ongoing challenges and improve aviation operations.