The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced an investigation into the runway mishap involving an Enugu Air Embraer E170 aircraft at Benin Airport.
In a Press Statement issued by the Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance of the Bureau, Mrs Funke Adebayo-Arowojobe, the agency explained that the aircraft, operating as Flight 4264 (registration 5N-ENR) from Lagos to Benin, overran the end of Runway 05 during landing at about 3:10 p.m. local time (1410 UTC) on Thursday.
There were 63 passengers and five crew members on board. The NSIB confirmed that all passengers and crew were safely accounted for, with no injuries reported.
According to the Bureau, its Go Team was deployed to the scene within minutes of receiving notification of the incident.”
The 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 cause of the occurrence.
“The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and other relevant airport authorities have been notified, while the aircraft has been secured for investigation.” The Director disclosed.
Commenting on the incident, the Director-General of the NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., expressed relief that no lives were lost or injuries sustained.
“We are relieved that all passengers and crew members are safe. While this is reassuring, every runway excursion is a serious occurrence that requires a thorough and independent investigation. Our investigators arrived at the scene within minutes, reflecting our commitment to a swift and professional response. We urge the public to avoid speculation while the investigation is ongoing,” he said.
The Bureau stated that a preliminary report will be released within 30 days, in accordance with regulatory requirements. The final report, including safety recommendations, will be published upon completion of the investigation.
The NSIB also urged all aviation stakeholders to continue prioritising safety and to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation.
