BENIN CITY — An aircraft operated by state-backed carrier Enugu Air skidded off the runway upon landing at the Benin City Airport in Edo State on Thursday afternoon, triggering an immediate emergency response by aviation and safety authorities.
The incident occurred as the flight attempted to complete its landing procedures, resulting in the aircraft overshooting the tarmac and veering into adjacent airside vegetation.
In a statement posted to its official X account, Enugu Air confirmed the runway excursion, reassuring the public that emergency protocols were activated immediately upon touchdown.
Passengers Evacuated Safely
Responding personnel from the Aerodrome Rescue and Firefighting Services of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and airport emergency units rushed to the scene to secure the aircraft and safely disembark everyone on board.
Preliminary reports indicate that all 68 passengers and crew members were evacuated without any recorded fatalities or major injuries. Affected passengers were subsequently transferred to the airport terminal via apron buses to undergo routine medical and safety checks.
“Our primary concern remains the safety and well-being of our passengers and crew,” the airline indicated in its initial briefing, confirming that comprehensive assistance is being provided to those on board.
Investigation Initiated by NSIB
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has been notified of the runway excursion and is deploying a preliminary investigation team to Benin City to inspect the aircraft, secure flight data and cockpit voice recorders, and interview the flight crew.
The cause of the incident—including prevailing weather conditions, braking action, or potential mechanical factors—remains under technical investigation by safety regulators.
Enugu Air, launched as a public-private partnership backed by the Enugu State Government, operates regional domestic routes across major Nigerian commercial centers. Further updates on airport operations and flight schedules are expected as FAAN completes its airside safety assessment.
