NSIB Investigates Enugu Air Aircraft Runway Excursion At Benin Airport

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has launched an investigation into a runway excursion involving an Enugu Air Embraer E170 aircraft at Benin Airport.

The aircraft, operating Flight 4264 from Lagos to Benin, overran the end of Runway 05 while landing at about 3:10 p.m. local time on Thursday.

According to the NSIB, the aircraft was carrying 63 passengers and five crew members.

All occupants were safely accounted for and no injuries were reported.

The Bureau said its Go Team arrived at the scene within minutes of being notified and has begun 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 incident.

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and relevant airport authorities have been notified, while the aircraft has been secured.

NSIB Director-General, 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.”

He added: “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 will be released within 30 days in line with regulatory requirements.

The agency added that a final report containing safety recommendations will be published after the investigation is concluded.