The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has launched an investigation into an incident involving a flight bound from Abuja to Accra that reportedly lost one of its engines mid-air. The incident occurred on December 7, 2024 and according to NSIB officials, the bureau is working to determine the cause of the engine failure and has urged the public to avoid speculating until the investigation is concluded. The preliminary findings are expected in the coming weeks. The NSIB emphasized its commitment to improving aviation safety through thorough investigation and recommendations.
The full Press Release:
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) wishes to inform the public that it has commenced an investigation into a serious incident involving a Fly Bird HS 125 aircraft with registration number 5NKAL. The aircraft, operating a flight from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja (DNAA), to Kotoka International Airport, Accra (DGAA), experienced technical difficulties during its flight on December 6 2024.
Preliminary information indicates that the aircraft, with four persons on board (three crew members and one passenger), was climbing through flight level 240 en route to flight level 280 when the crew reported an engine number 2 indication issue. The aircraft was at a position approximately 25 nautical miles southwest of VOR station VONUK at 17:54 UTC when the crew requested a diversion back to Abuja due to the engine indication. The request was promptly granted, and the aircraft was cleared to descend to flight level 190.
During the descent, the aircraft experienced the loss of engine No.2 at flight level 230. The crew elected to return to Abuja. On approaching Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, at approximately 5,000 feet, the crew declared Mayday, stating they had lost Engine No.1. The crew managed to safely land the aircraft at Abuja Airport at 18:16 UTC. There were no injuries reported, and all individuals on board are safe.
The NSIB has launched an investigation into the incident to determine the circumstances surrounding the engine malfunction and the subsequent loss of both engines. Our Go Team is gathering evidence, conducting interviews, and reviewing the aircraft’s flight data and maintenance records to uncover underlying causes. This investigation aims to prevent future occurrences and enhance aviation safety.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji
Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance,
Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau
