An Enugu Air flight veered off the runway upon landing at Benin Airport earlier today, prompting an immediate emergency response.
According to a statement from the airline, all passengers and crew were safely evacuated, with no injuries or fatalities reported.
The aircraft has been secured, and aviation authorities have been notified in accordance with standard procedures. An assessment of the aircraft and the factors leading to the incident is currently ongoing.
The event caused a temporary disruption to airport operations while emergency teams responded and aviation officials began their investigation. Enugu Air advised that the runway excursion may result in adjustments to some flight schedules, assuring affected passengers that they would be contacted directly and provided with necessary assistance.
The airline emphasized that the safety of its passengers, crew, and operations remains its top priority, and pledged full cooperation with ongoing investigations. Enugu Air also thanked passengers for their understanding and promised to provide further updates through official channels.
NSIB Launches Investigation
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) announced it has launched an inquiry into the incident involving the Embraer E170 aircraft (registration 5N-ENR), operating as Flight 4264 from Lagos to Benin. The aircraft overran the end of Runway 05 during landing, resulting in the runway excursion.
The NSIB confirmed that all passengers and crew have been accounted for, with no reported injuries.
In a statement signed by Mrs. Funke Adebayo-Arowojobe, Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, the NSIB noted that its Go Team was dispatched and arrived at the scene within minutes, highlighting the Bureau’s commitment to rapid response.
The team is currently gathering evidence, interviewing the flight crew and relevant personnel, examining the aircraft, assessing runway conditions, and reviewing operational and technical information to determine the cause of the incident.
Relevant authorities, including the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and airport officials, have been notified, and the aircraft remains secured as the investigation continues.
