The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has begun a full investigation into Thursday’s runway excursion involving an Enugu Air aircraft at the Benin Airport, assuring the public that all 68 people on board escaped unharmed.
The aircraft, an Embraer E170 operating as Flight 4264 with registration number 5N-ENR, was travelling from Lagos to Benin when it overran the end of Runway 05 while landing at about 3:10 p.m. local time.
According to the NSIB, the aircraft was carrying 63 passengers and five crew members, all of whom were safely evacuated without injuries.
“All passengers and crew have been accounted for, and no injuries have been reported,” the bureau said.
The agency disclosed that its Go Team arrived at the scene within minutes after receiving the report and immediately began preserving evidence and examining the incident.
Investigators are currently interviewing the flight crew and other relevant personnel, inspecting the aircraft, assessing runway conditions and reviewing operational and technical records to determine what led to the runway excursion.
The NSIB also confirmed that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and other relevant airport authorities have been notified, while the aircraft has been secured for investigation.
Commenting on the incident, the Director-General of the NSIB, Capt. Alex Badeh Jr., said the absence of casualties was encouraging but stressed that the incident would be treated seriously.
“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,” he said.
He also appealed to Nigerians to avoid speculation while investigators carry out their work.
“We urge the public to refrain from speculation as our investigators carry out their work in accordance with international standards,” Badeh added.
The bureau said it expects to release a preliminary report within 30 days, while a final report containing its findings and safety recommendations will be published after the investigation is concluded.
Following the incident, Enugu Air also confirmed that all passengers and crew safely disembarked from the aircraft and warned that some flight schedules may be temporarily adjusted as investigations continue.
“Passengers affected by any changes will be contacted directly and provided with the necessary assistance,” the airline stated.
