NSIB Launches Probe into Runway Excursion Involving Enugu Air in Benin
...As Airline Announces Possible Flight Disruptions
An Enugu Air Embraer E170 aircraft on Thursday skidded off the runway after landing at Benin Airport, Edo State.
The aircraft, operating as Flight 4264 with registration 5N-ENR, had departed Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos, for Benin when it overran the end of Runway 05 during landing, resulting in a runway excursion at about 3:10 p.m.
There were 63 passengers and five crew members on board. All passengers and crew safely disembarked, while no injuries or casualties were recorded.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has confirmed the incident and commenced an investigation into the runway excursion.
In a statement signed by the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs Funke Adebayo-Arowojobe, the Bureau said its Go Team was mobilised and arrived at the occurrence site within minutes of notification, demonstrating its commitment to a rapid emergency response.
According to the statement, investigators are gathering and preserving evidence, interviewing the flight crew and other relevant personnel, examining the aircraft, assessing runway conditions, and reviewing operational and technical information to determine the circumstances and contributing factors to the occurrence.
The Bureau added that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and relevant airport authorities had been notified, while the aircraft had been secured.
Commenting on the incident, the Director General of the NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., said: “We are relieved that all passengers and crew members are safe and that no injuries were reported. While this is reassuring, every runway excursion is a serious occurrence that deserves a thorough and independent investigation.
“Our Go Team was on the ground within minutes of notification, and that speed of response reflects the readiness and professionalism of our investigators. We urge the public to refrain from speculation as our investigators carry out their work in accordance with international standards.”
The NSIB said a preliminary report would be issued within 30 days in line with regulatory requirements, while a final report containing safety recommendations would be published at the conclusion of the investigation.
It also urged stakeholders in the aviation industry to continue prioritising safety and cooperate fully with ongoing investigations.
Meanwhile, Enugu Air in a public notice issued following the incident, warned that it could lead to temporary adjustments to some of its flight schedules.
The airline said affected passengers would be contacted directly and provided with the necessary assistance.
“As a result, there may be temporary adjustments to some flight schedules. Passengers affected by any changes will be contacted directly and provided with the necessary assistance”, the statement read in part.
Enugu Air reiterated that the safety of its passengers, crew and operations remains its highest priority and pledged to provide further updates through its official communication channels.
