NSIB opens probe into Challenger 604 door separation incident

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has officially launched an investigation following a serious air safety incident involving a Triton-operated Bombardier Challenger 604 aircraft, registered as T7-SEI.

The aircraft, carrying nine people—three crew members and six passengers—experienced a sudden door separation shortly after taking off from Abuja en route to Lagos.

According to preliminary details released by the Bureau, the flight departed from Abuja bound for Lagos.

At an altitude of 3,500 feet (about 3 nautical miles from departure), the flight crew declared a Mayday after the cabin door abruptly detached.

Demonstrating swift airmanship, the NSIB said the crew turned the aircraft back toward Abuja and landed safely on Runway 22. No occupants were injured.

The Director-General of NSIB, Capt. Alex Badeh Jr., said investigators have recovered the separated door, which has been securely transported to the NSIB wreckage hangar for detailed forensic examination.

The Bureau stated that its comprehensive investigation will focus on establishing the precise mechanical and operational circumstances surrounding the failure.

It noted that it will release further updates as the inquiry progresses.

Wole Shadare