The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has released its preliminary findings on the December 6, 2024, incident involving a Hawker 900XP aircraft (5N-KAL) operated by Flybird Aircraft Management Services Limited at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
According to the report, Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, Director, (NSIB), the aircraft was en route to Kotoka International Airport, Accra, Ghana, when, at flight level 260, the crew heard a loud bang from Engine Number 2, followed by temperature spikes and vibrations.
The pilots declared an emergency and requested an immediate return to Abuja. While descending, Engine Number 2 experienced another temperature surge, and Engine Number 1 became unresponsive to thrust commands.
Despite the in-flight challenges, the aircraft landed safely at 18:16 local time, with all four occupants – three crew members and one passenger – disembarking unhurt. No structural damage to the aircraft was reported.
As part of its safety measures, the NSIB has recommended a thorough inspection of both engines to determine the root cause of the failure.
She said the full preliminary report, containing initial findings, is available for download on the NSIB website.
The investigation is still in progress, and the final report will provide comprehensive conclusions and safety recommendations aimed at enhancing aviation safety.
