Passengers escape unhurt as Enugu Air aircraft veers off runway at Benin Airport
Passengers and crew members escaped unhurt on Thursday after an Enugu Air aircraft veered off the runway while landing at Benin Airport in Edo State.
The incident, which occurred on Thursday afternoon, initially sparked reports on social media that the aircraft had crash-landed after videos showed it off the runway.
However, the airline clarified that the occurrence was a runway excursion, a recognised aviation incident in which an aircraft leaves the runway during landing or take-off.
In a statement, Enugu Air said the aircraft involved was one of its Embraer regional jets and confirmed that there were no casualties.
“Enugu Air wishes to inform the public that one of our aircraft operating into Benin experienced a runway excursion after landing today. We confirm that all passengers and crew have safely disembarked and there were no injuries or casualties. The aircraft has been secured, and the relevant aviation authorities have been notified in line with established procedures. An assessment of the aircraft and the circumstances surrounding the occurrence is currently underway.”
The airline said the incident could lead to temporary adjustments to some of its flight schedules, adding that affected passengers would be contacted directly and provided with the necessary assistance.
It also reaffirmed that the safety of its passengers, crew and operations remains its highest priority, promising to provide further updates through its official communication channels.
The aircraft involved is one of the Embraer regional jets recently introduced into the Enugu State-owned carrier’s fleet for commercial operations. Aviation authorities are expected to investigate the cause of the runway excursion.
