Preliminary report out in 30 days as NSIB investigates Enugu Air incident

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

The Director General of the NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., in a statement said the aircraft, operating as Flight 4264 (registration 5N-ENR) from Lagos (LOS) to Benin (BNI), was involved in a runway excursion after overrunning the end of Runway 05 during landing at approximately 1510 hours local time on Thursday, adding that there were 63 passengers and five crew members on board.

All passengers and crew, he said, had been accounted for, and no injuries have been reported.

Badeh Jr. disclosed that the NSIB’s Go Team was mobilised and on the ground at the occurrence site within minutes of notification, underscoring the Bureau’s commitment to a rapid and effective emergency response.

The team, he further stated, is gathering and preserving evidence, interviewing the flight crew and other relevant personnel, examining the aircraft, assessing runway conditions, and reviewing all other relevant operational and technical information to determine the circumstances and contributing factors to the occurrence, stressing that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and relevant airport authorities have been notified, and the aircraft has been secured.

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. 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.”

According to him, a preliminary report will be issued within 30 days, in accordance with regulatory requirements, explaining that the final investigation report, including safety recommendations, will be published upon completion of the investigation.

The NSIB urged all stakeholders in the aviation industry to continue prioritising safety and to cooperate fully with ongoing investigations.

Wole Shadare