Panic broke out at Benin Airport in Edo State on Thursday after an Enugu Air aircraft carrying 63 passengers and five crew members skidded off the runway while landing, prompting an emergency response and an investigation by the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB).
The aircraft, an Embraer E170 operating Flight 4264 from Lagos to Benin, reportedly overran the end of Runway 05 at approximately 3:10 p.m. local time before coming to a stop in the grassy area beyond the runway. Despite the frightening incident, all 68 occupants were safely evacuated without injuries or fatalities.
What Happened?
According to Enugu Air, the aircraft experienced a runway excursion after landing. The airline confirmed that emergency procedures were immediately activated, the aircraft was secured, and aviation authorities were notified in line with standard safety protocols.
One passenger described the tense moments, saying the aircraft appeared to touch down much farther along the runway than expected before continuing beyond the paved surface. He added that although the experience was terrifying, everyone on board escaped safely.
NSIB Launches Investigation
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has dispatched its specialized "Go Team" to the scene to determine the exact cause of the incident.
Investigators are expected to:
Examine the aircraft for possible technical faults.
Assess runway conditions and weather at the time of landing.
Review cockpit recordings and flight data.
Interview the flight crew, airport personnel, and witnesses.
Determine whether operational or environmental factors contributed to the runway excursion.
NSIB Director-General Capt. Alex Badeh Jr. said that while the safe evacuation of everyone onboard is reassuring, runway excursions are serious aviation occurrences that require a thorough and independent investigation. A preliminary report is expected within 30 days, with a final report to follow after the investigation is completed.
Flight Disruptions
The incident temporarily affected operations at Benin Airport, with some airlines adjusting or suspending flights while the runway was being cleared. Enugu Air also warned that passengers could experience temporary schedule changes as safety assessments continue.
What is a Runway Excursion?
A runway excursion occurs when an aircraft veers off or overruns the runway during takeoff or landing. Such incidents can result from several factors, including adverse weather, landing too far down the runway, braking issues, runway conditions, or operational decisions. The ongoing NSIB investigation will establish the precise cause of the Benin incident.
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