United Nigeria Airlines Clears Air on Viral A320 Video, Affirms No Safety Risk

United Nigeria Airlines has moved swiftly to allay public concerns following the circulation of a user-generated video on social media showing an unusual sound onboard one of its Airbus A320 aircraft.
In a statement issued on January 8, 2026, the airline clarified that the sound was recorded while the aircraft was on the ground during routine engine start-up procedures and did not occur in flight, as widely speculated online.

According to the airline, the noise emanated from an Air Starter Unit (ASU)—a standard piece of ground support equipment used across the aviation industry to supply compressed air for aircraft engine start-up. The ASU operates externally and typically produces a noticeable sound, which is considered normal, expected, and operationally safe.

United Nigeria Airlines stressed that at no time did the sound suggest a technical fault, abnormal condition, or safety concern. The aircraft, passengers, and crew were never in danger, and all procedures were carried out in strict adherence to approved regulatory and safety standards.

Reaffirming its commitment to safety, the airline stated that it maintains a zero-tolerance policy for any compromise on operational integrity and continues to uphold the highest levels of regulatory compliance.

The airline also urged passengers and members of the public to verify information before sharing content on social media, warning that unverified posts could spread misinformation and cause unnecessary public anxiety.

The clarification was signed by Chibuike Uloka, MNIPR, Public Relations Officer of United Nigeria Airlines, which is headquartered in Enugu with an operational office in Abuja. The carrier reiterated that passenger safety and transparent communication remain central to its operations as it continues to connect Nigerian cities under its brand promise, “Flying to Unite.”

United Nigeria Airlines has dismissed safety concerns raised by a viral video of an Airbus A320, explaining that the sound heard was from standard ground equipment during engine start-up and posed no risk to passengers or crew.

United Nigeria Airlines clarifies that a viral Airbus A320 video showing an unusual sound was recorded on ground during routine engine start-up, assuring passengers of full safety and regulatory compliance.