NSIB Launches Investigation into Enugu Air Runway Excursion at Benin Airport

By Admin, Lagos

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has begun an investigation into the runway excursion involving an Enugu Air Embraer E170 aircraft at Benin Airport after the aircraft overshot the end of Runway 05 while landing from Lagos on Thursday.

In a statement, the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance at the NSIB, Mrs. Funke Adebayo-Arowojobe, said the aircraft, operating Flight 4264, was carrying 63 passengers and five crew members when the incident occurred.

She confirmed that the aircraft came to a safe stop and that all passengers and crew members disembarked without injuries.

According to Adebayo-Arowojobe, the Bureau immediately deployed its Go Team to the airport to secure the accident scene, examine the aircraft and runway, interview the flight crew and gather evidence to determine the cause of the occurrence.

“Our investigators arrived at the scene within minutes to secure evidence, inspect the aircraft and runway, interview the flight crew and determine the factors that led to the occurrence,” she said.

The NSIB added that the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and other relevant airport agencies have been notified, while the aircraft has been secured pending the outcome of the investigation.

The Bureau said it would release a preliminary report within 30 days, in line with its procedures, while a final report containing safety findings and recommendations will be published after the investigation is concluded.

Meanwhile, Enugu Air reiterated its commitment to passenger safety, describing safety as its highest operational priority.

The airline noted that the incident could lead to temporary adjustments to some of its flight schedules and assured passengers that those affected would be contacted directly.

Enugu Air also appealed to the public to refrain from speculation and allow investigators to complete their work before conclusions are drawn.