Flight operations at Benin Airport in Edo State were disrupted on Thursday after an Enugu Air aircraft carrying 63 passengers and five crew members veered off the runway after landing, prompting an investigation by the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB).
The Embraer E170, operating as Flight 4264 from Lagos to Benin with registration 5N-ENR, overshot Runway 05 at about 3:10 p.m. local time and came to a stop in nearby bushland.
Emergency responders confirmed that all 68 occupants were safely evacuated without injuries.
In a statement, Enugu Air said the aircraft experienced a runway excursion after landing but assured the public that there were no casualties. The airline added that the aircraft had been secured and relevant aviation authorities notified in line with standard procedures.
The carrier also warned that the incident could lead to temporary adjustments to some flight schedules, with affected passengers to be contacted directly.
One of the passengers, Benjamin Mordi, described the experience as frightening, saying the aircraft appeared to touch down close to the end of the runway before continuing off the paved surface. He expressed gratitude that everyone on board escaped unharmed.
Following the incident, the NSIB deployed a Go Team to the airport to begin a full investigation. Investigators immediately commenced evidence preservation, interviewed the flight crew and other personnel, examined the aircraft, assessed runway conditions and reviewed operational and technical records.
The bureau confirmed that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and other relevant airport authorities had been notified, while the aircraft remains secured.
NSIB Director-General, Capt. Alex Badeh Jr., said the absence of injuries was encouraging but stressed that every runway excursion is treated as a serious safety occurrence requiring a thorough and independent investigation. He urged the public to avoid speculation while investigations continue.
The bureau said a preliminary report would be released within 30 days, while a final report containing safety recommendations would be published after the investigation is completed.
The incident also affected flight operations at the airport, forcing Air Peace to temporarily suspend all flights to and from Benin Airport due to the runway closure.
In a statement, the airline apologised for the disruption, describing the cancellations as beyond its control and appealed to affected passengers for patience while airport authorities work to restore normal operations.
