The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced an investigation into the runway excursion involving an Enugu Air Embraer E170 aircraft at Benin Airport, following its overrun of the runway during landing on Thursday.
The aircraft, operating Flight 4264 with registration 5N-ENR, departed Lagos for Benin and overshot the end of Runway 05 at approximately 3:10 p.m. local time (1410 UTC).
A total of 63 passengers and five crew members were on board the flight. The NSIB confirmed that all occupants were safely evacuated and accounted for, with no injuries reported.
In a swift response, the Bureau deployed its Go Team to the scene within minutes of receiving notification of the occurrence, demonstrating its commitment to prompt accident investigation and emergency response.
According to the NSIB, investigators are currently gathering and preserving evidence, interviewing the flight crew and other relevant personnel, examining the aircraft, assessing runway conditions, and reviewing operational and technical records to determine the cause and contributing factors of the incident.
The Bureau added that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and relevant airport authorities have been notified, while the aircraft has been secured pending the outcome of the investigation.
Commenting on the development, the Director-General of the NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., expressed relief that the incident did not result in any casualties.
“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.
Badeh noted that the rapid deployment of investigators reflected the Bureau’s preparedness and professionalism, urging the public to avoid speculation while the investigation is ongoing.
“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”, he added.
The NSIB disclosed that a preliminary report will be released within 30 days, in line with regulatory requirements, while the final investigation report, including safety recommendations, will be published upon completion of the investigation.
The Bureau also called on all stakeholders in the aviation industry to continue prioritising safety and to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation.