Ground Equipment Collision Grounds Air Peace Embraer 195-E2 at Lagos Airport

A brand-new Air Peace Embraer 195-E2 aircraft was grounded following a significant ground handling equipment damage incident. The collision occurred on the apron at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, causing an immediate aircraft operational disruption. The aircraft, registered 5N-BYH, was preparing for Flight P47750 from Lagos to Accra.

Incident Details and Immediate Impact

The incident involved a luggage conveyor belt vehicle. This vehicle belongs to the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO). It reportedly collided with the aircraft’s engine assembly. The impact caused visible damage to the engine. Specifically, a dent and tear was noted on the thrust reverser cowling damage. This cowling is a critical component of the jet engine.

Passengers had already completed boarding for the flight. They were immediately asked to disembark the Embraer jet. The aircraft was grounded as a precautionary safety measure. This was necessary pending a full technical inspection and repair. The grounding caused widespread operational issues. Sources confirmed that nine scheduled flight sectors were affected. This new E2 aircraft was fully booked until mid-January 2026. The incident therefore created significant delays and cancellations for many passengers. For the latest updates, visit our commercial aviation news section.

Regulatory Scrutiny and Financial Burden

This event has renewed concerns over NCAA ground handling safety standards. Ground incidents involving aircraft and ground support equipment (GSE) are a recurring issue. The Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection for the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Michael Achimugu, confirmed the incident. He strongly criticized the ground handling service providers. Achimugu highlighted the financial burden on the airline. He noted that a similar incident earlier cost the airline approximately $3.5 million to fix. Repairs on modern aircraft engines are capital-intensive.

The Challenge of Part 19 Regulations

The NCAA official pointed out a key regulatory challenge. Airlines must manage the fallout under Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023. This section covers consumer protection, refunds, and compensation. The airline bears the cost and passenger backlash. This occurs even when the damage is not the airline's fault. Achimugu called for greater accountability for third-party providers. He suggested that the NCAA is looking to strengthen regulations. The goal is to impose heavier sanctions on poorly trained ground handling personnel.

Industry-Wide Safety Call

Ground handling incidents pose a serious risk to aviation safety. They also inflict major financial and reputational damage on operators like Air Peace. The global aviation industry, guided by bodies like the International Air Transport Association (IATA), stresses ramp safety. Preventing such incidents requires strict adherence to international protocols. It also demands continuous training for all ground staff. The grounding of a new Embraer E2 jet underscores the need for immediate action. Investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the collision. The findings will inform future safety protocols at the busy Murtala Muhammed International Airport.