NSIB launches probe into Allied cargo aircraft runway excursion

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced an investigation into the runway excursion involving a Boeing 737-400 (Cargo) aircraft with registration and nationality marks 5N-JRT, operated by Allied Air.

A statement signed by NSIB Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance Mrs. Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji stated that the incident occurred at approximately 10:06 AM local time yesterday at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

The statement said the aircraft, operating as flight AJK206 from Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, skidded off the right side of Runway 22 into the grass verge after landing. No fatalities or injuries to the crew or ground personnel have been reported.

The aircraft was said to have sustained significant damage, and emergency response teams were promptly deployed to the scene to ensure the safety of all personnel and secure the site.

The statement read: “The NSIB has initiated an investigation to determine the causal and contributory factors that led to this incident. Our Go Team has been dispatched to the site to conduct an on-site assessment, recover relevant data, and interview involved parties. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.”

Meanwhile, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has shut down the Abuja Airport runway to enable them to clear the debris.

Director, Public Affairs & Consumer Protection Mrs. Obiageli Orah said the Airport Emergency Response Team is on the scene, along with accident investigators, as the runway is being cleared and is expected to reopen for operations as soon as possible.

The authority requested that all speculation be put on hold until the preliminary report is released by the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB).

Consequently, airlines have begun alerting passengers to flight delays due to the Abuja Airport incident.

A statement seen on the X handle of flyairpeace and UnitedNigeria read: “We wish to inform our valued passengers that the ongoing delays affecting both inbound and outbound flights at Abuja Airport are due to the temporary closure of the runway.”

“This closure follows an incident involving an aircraft from another airline that skidded off the runway. Consequently, a few flights across our network are experiencing delays as we await clearance for the runway to reopen. We deeply regret any inconvenience this may cause and sincerely apologize for the disruption to your travel plans.”

“At United Nigeria Airlines, your safety is our utmost priority. We are actively collaborating with airport authorities to ensure the runway is cleared promptly and operations resume safely.”