Enugu Air plane overran Benin Airport runway due to weather, infrastructure issues: NSIB

An Enugu Air flight carrying 63 passengers and five crew members experienced a runway excursion at Benin Airport in Nigeria last month, with the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) releasing preliminary findings. Flight 4264, en route from Lagos, was attempting to land on Runway 05 when the aircraft overran the runway after encountering adverse conditions.

According to the NSIB's initial report, Air Traffic Control (ATC) advised the flight crew that the approach to Runway 23 appeared more favorable than Runway 05. While the crew acknowledged this advisory, they proceeded with an Area Navigation (RNAV) approach to Runway 05. ATC also informed the crew that the runway surface was wet before granting landing clearance. However, the report notes that ATC's communication did not include a Runway Condition Report or Runway Condition Code (RCR/RWYCC).

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Weather deteriorated during the aircraft’s arrival, with moderate rain and reduced visibility reported before landing. ATC advised the crew that the approach path to Runway 23 appeared better than the approach path to Runway 05; the crew acknowledged and continued the RNAV approach to Runway 05.

Following the overrun, the aircraft collided with approach-lighting installations and two concrete structures belonging to a decommissioned localizer installation beyond the runway end. The impact caused the nose landing gear to detach, followed by the main landing gear assemblies. Investigators also identified infrastructure deficiencies at the airport, including an unserviceable weather information display equipment for controllers and an uncompleted building that obstructed the controller's line of sight to the end of Runway 05.

Further details from the flight data recorder (FDR) indicated a tailwind component during the final approach and landing. The aircraft landed approximately 1,641.5 meters from the threshold of Runway 05. Post-occurrence examination revealed thrust reverser assemblies in a deployed condition. Despite the significant impact and damage to the aircraft, all individuals on board were safely evacuated, highlighting the effectiveness of emergency procedures.

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ATC, while issuing the landing clearance, also advised the crew that the runway surface was wet. The ATC communication given during the landing clearance to the crew did not include Runway Condition Report/Runway Condition Code (RCR/RWYCC).