Enugu Air, one of the newest airlines, on Thursday had a runway ex during landing at the Benin Airport with all 68 Passengers onboard evacuated safely.
Confirming the incidence, Enugu Air in a statement informed that one of its aircraft operating into Benin experienced a runway excursion after landing.
“We confirm that all passengers and crew have safely disembarked and there were no injuries or casualties” the statement assured.
“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 statement further stated.
The statement indicated that “as a result, there may be temporary adjustments to some flight schedules. Passengers affected by any changes will be contacted directly and provided with the necessary assistance.”
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced an investigation into a runway excursion involving an Enugu Air Embraer E170 aircraft at Benin Airport (BNI).
The aircraft, operating as Flight 4264 (registration 5N-ENR) from Lagos (LOS) to Benin (BNI), was involved in a runway excursion after overrunning the end of Runway 05 during landing at approximately 1510 hours local time (1410 UTC) on Thursday, 23 July 2026. There were 63 passengers and five crew members on board. All passengers and crew have been accounted for, and no injuries have been reported.
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 Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and relevant airport authorities have been notified, and the aircraft has been secured.
Commenting on the occurrence, the Director General of the NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., said: “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. 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.”
A preliminary report will be issued within 30 days, in accordance with regulatory requirements. The final investigation report, including safety recommendations, will be published upon completion of the investigation.
The NSIB urges all stakeholders in the aviation industry to continue prioritising safety and to cooperate fully with ongoing investigations.
