NSIB commences probe as Accra-bound aircraft loses two engines mid-air

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) says it has commenced an investigation into an incident involving an Accra-bound Fly Bird HS 125 aircraft that led to the loss of two engines mid-air.

According to a statement on Sunday by NSIB, the aircraft, with registration number 5NKAL, operating a flight from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, to Kotoka International Airport, Accra, experienced technical difficulties during its flight on Thursday.

“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 statement reads.

“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 bad engine indication.”

According to the bureau, the request was swiftly 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,” NSIB said.

“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.”

NSIB said it has launched an investigation into the incident to ascertain the underlying circumstances surrounding the engine malfunction and the subsequent loss of both engines.

The bureau said its “Go Team” is gathering evidence, conducting interviews, and examining the aircraft’s flight data and maintenance records to uncover underlying causes.

NSIB said the investigation aims to prevent future occurrences and improve aviation safety, adding that further updates would be provided as more information becomes available.