Investigations begin when an Accra-bound aeroplane loses two engines mid-flight and returns to Abuja.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has opened an investigation into a major mishap involving a Fly Bird HS 125 aircraft with the registration number 5NKAL.
On December 6, 2024, the aircraft encountered a technical malfunction while en route from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja (DNAA) to Kotoka International Airport, Accra (DGAA).
During the trip, the aeroplane lost both engines. According to preliminary reports, while ascending to flight level 280, the crew reported a problem with engine number 2.
Shortly later, the aircraft was about 25 nautical miles southwest of the VOR station VONUK when the crew requested a return to Abuja.
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The request was immediately granted, and the aircraft descended to flight level 190. However, during this descent, engine number 2 failed at flight level 230.
As the situation worsened, the crew declared a Mayday emergency as engine number 1 also failed at approximately 5,000 feet while approaching Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
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Despite the obstacles, the crew safely landed the aircraft at Abuja Airport at 18:16 UTC, with all four individuals on board – three crew members and one passenger – unhurt. No injuries were recorded.
Mrs. Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance at the NSIB, acknowledged the occurrence and said a complete investigation is ongoing. According to preliminary data, the aircraft was rising through flight level 240 when the engine issue was initially detected.
