The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has began an investigation into the runway excursion involving an Enugu Air aircraft at Benin Airport in Edo State, with all 68 occupants escaping unhurt.
The incident occurred at about 3:10 p.m. on Thursday when the Embraer E170 aircraft, operating as Flight 4264 from Lagos to Benin, overran the end of Runway 05 during landing.
The aircraft, with registration number 5N-ENR, was carrying 63 passengers and five crew members. The NSIB confirmed that all those on board were safely evacuated and no injuries were reported.
According to the Bureau, its investigators were deployed to the airport within minutes of receiving notification of the occurrence to begin a full-scale investigation.
The NSIB said the team is 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 other relevant airport authorities have been notified, while the aircraft has been secured for investigation.
Director general of the NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., expressed relief that the incident did not result in casualties but stressed that runway excursions remain serious aviation occurrences.
“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.
“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,” Badeh said.
The Bureau disclosed that a preliminary report on the incident would be released within 30 days in line with regulatory requirements, while the final report, including safety recommendations, will be published after the investigation is concluded.
The NSIB also urged all stakeholders in the aviation industry to continue prioritising safety and cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation.
The runway excursion temporarily disrupted operations at Benin Airport as emergency responders secured the aircraft and the affected section of the runway. Authorities have yet to determine the factors that led to the aircraft overrunning the runway.
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