The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has begun an investigation into an 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.
NSIB spokesperson, Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday.
She said preliminary information showed 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 plane 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, she said
According to her, the request was promptly granted, and the aircraft was cleared to descend to flight level 190.
According to the preliminary findings, during the descent, the aircraft experienced the loss of engine No.2 at flight level 230.
She said the crew had 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.
Oladeji said the crew was able to safely land the aircraft at Abuja Airport at 18:16 UTC, adding that’s there were no injuries reported, and all Crew members and the single passenger were safe.
The NSIB said it was investigating 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,” the bureau added.
