A potentially tragic aviation incident was averted on Thursday after an Enugu Air aircraft carrying 68 passengers skidded off the runway while landing at the Benin Airport in Edo State.
The aircraft, operating the Enugu–Benin–Lagos route, reportedly veered off the runway after touchdown before coming to a stop in a grassy area adjacent to the airstrip. The incident triggered panic among passengers, but all those on board were safely evacuated without any reported injuries or fatalities.
Airport emergency responders, including firefighters, medical personnel and rescue teams, were immediately deployed to the scene. Working alongside the flight crew, they evacuated passengers from the aircraft and secured the area to prevent further risk.
Witnesses described tense moments as the aircraft left the runway, but praised the swift intervention of airport officials and emergency personnel, whose prompt actions ensured the safety of everyone on board.
The aircraft has since been removed from active service pending a comprehensive technical assessment. Aviation authorities are expected to examine the aircraft and review all operational data to determine what led to the runway excursion.
Enugu Air acknowledged the incident and assured passengers that established emergency procedures were activated immediately after the aircraft came to a stop. The airline reiterated that the safety and well-being of its passengers and crew remain its highest priority and pledged full cooperation with investigators.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau is expected to lead the investigation into the occurrence. Investigators will examine the aircraft, review flight and maintenance records, and interview members of the flight crew as part of efforts to establish the cause of the incident.
Although the runway excursion briefly disrupted activities at the airport, operations were restored after emergency teams secured the scene. Aviation authorities have urged the public to remain calm and refrain from speculation until the outcome of the investigation is made public.
The incident serves as another reminder of the importance of strict adherence to aviation safety standards and the critical role of emergency response systems in preventing loss of life during unforeseen occurrences.
