Aviation Minister orders probe into Enugu Air runway incident at Benin Airport

Nigeria's Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has launched a probe into a runway excursion incident involving Enugu Air at Benin Airport. The incident occurred when an Embraer E170 aircraft, operating Flight 4264 from Lagos, veered off the runway shortly after a successful landing on Thursday.

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I have been duly informed that the incident with Enugu Air yesterday in Benin is that the aircraft skidded off the runway after landing successfully.

Keyamo confirmed on his X account that he had been briefed on the situation, describing it as a "runway excursion." He assured the public that all individuals on board the aircraft, comprising 63 passengers and five crew members, escaped unharmed. The minister has instructed all relevant aviation agencies to collaborate with Enugu Air to determine the precise cause of the event.

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Everyone was safe.

Enugu Air, owned by the Enugu State Government and which began commercial operations in July 2025, confirmed that the aircraft was secured and authorities were notified. The airline is assessing the aircraft, and temporary adjustments to flight schedules may occur. This incident marks a significant event for the relatively new airline, which operates a fleet of three Embraer aircraft.

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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.

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has dispatched its 'Go Team' to Benin Airport to commence a detailed investigation. The bureau's Director-General, Alex Badeh Jr., emphasized that while the safe disembarkation of all passengers and crew is a relief, every runway excursion requires a thorough and independent investigation. The NSIB team is currently preserving evidence, interviewing flight crew and personnel, assessing runway conditions, and reviewing operational records to establish the circumstances surrounding the excursion.

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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.