Ground Handling Mishap Grounds Air Peace Embraer 195-E2 at Lagos Airport

A newly acquired Air Peace Embraer 195-E2 aircraft was severely damaged. The incident occurred at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos. A ground handling vehicle collided with the regional jet on Friday, December 26, 2025. The collision happened while the aircraft was on the ground. Passengers had already completed boarding for Flight P47750 to Accra, Ghana.

Incident Details and Operational Impact

The Lagos airport ground handling incident involved a luggage conveyor belt vehicle. The vehicle was operated by the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO). The impact caused visible damage to one of the aircraft’s engines. Specifically, the aircraft thrust reverser cowling sustained a dent and a tear. This component is a critical part of the engine casing.

Safety protocols immediately required the grounding of the aircraft. All passengers on board were instructed to disembark. This single incident led to significant operational delays and disruptions. The Embraer 195-E2 was scheduled to operate nine flight sectors that day. All subsequent flights were affected by the unplanned grounding.

Passengers were left stranded or rebooked on alternative services. The grounding of this new jet is a major setback for the airline. The aircraft was reportedly fully booked until mid-January 2026.

Financial and Regulatory Ramifications

Repairing damage to modern commercial aircraft engines is capital-intensive. This incident carries substantial financial implications for Air Peace. A similar engine cowling damage incident earlier in the year reportedly cost the airline about $3.5 million to rectify. Such costs highlight the financial exposure airlines face from ramp accidents.

The airline will likely incur significant foreign currency costs for the repair. The incident also brings potential expenses for passenger compensation and refunds. While no injuries were reported, the event underscores the critical need for improved aviation safety standards Nigeria.

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) confirmed the disruption. An NCAA spokesperson noted that the agency is considering tougher regulatory measures. These new measures could include stricter sanctions for ground service providers found culpable. The goal is to address recurring issues related to equipment condition and ramp safety procedures.

This event is a stark reminder of the challenges in commercial aviation operations. Airlines must manage risks that are often outside their direct control. The reliability of ground handling services is vital for maintaining schedules. For more updates on commercial aviation news, visit flying.flights.

• The damaged Embraer 195-E2 is a key part of Air Peace's fleet expansion.
• The NAHCO ground handling collision caused a dent and tear to the engine's Thrust Reverser Cowling.
• Industry reports suggest similar engine damage repairs can cost approximately $3.5 million.
• The incident at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS) disrupted nine flight sectors.