Horse’s Mouth News appreciates donations in support of good journalism and quality reportage. (Naira Account, Nigeria)
Account number: 6281917627
Account name: Horse’s Mouth News Media
Bank: Monie Point
Tragedy averted as Enugu Air veers off runway in Benin Airport
A tragedy was on Thursday averted at the Benin Airport, after an aircraft operated by Enugu Air veered off the runway after landing, triggering an emergency response.
According to the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), the aircraft, operating as Flight 4264 with registration 5N-ENR, which headed from Lagos to Benin, got involved in the runway excursion after overrunning the end of Runway 05 during landing.
The airline reported no fatalities or injuries among the passengers, disclosing in a statement that all passengers and crew members were safely evacuated.
“The aircraft has been secured and the relevant aviation authorities have been notified in line with established procedures. An assessment of the aircraft and the circumstances surrounding the occurrence is currently underway,” the airline said.
The incident which disrupted flight operations at the Benin airport, saw emergency responders securing the aircraft and aviation officials assessing the situation.
The airline’s management said the incident may result in temporary adjustments to some flight schedules, noting that affected passengers would be directly contacted and provided with the necessary assistance.
The management who thanked passengers for their understanding, further stated that it was cooperating with the relevant aviation authorities as investigations into the incident continue, adding that updates would be provided through its official communication channels.
The NSIB said it had launched investigation into the runway excursion involving the Embraer E170 aircraft at Benin airport, stating that all passengers and crew have been accounted for, with no injuries reported as at the time of filing this report.
The bureau disclosed this in a statement signed by its director of public affairs and family assistance, Mrs. Funke Adebayo-Arowojobe.
“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 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,” the bureau stated.
It also said the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and relevant airport authorities have been notified of the incident.
