The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has swiftly initiated an investigation into the runway excursion incident involving a McDonnell Douglas MD82 aircraft operated by Dana Airlines at the domestic wing of Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.

The incident unfolded shortly after 9 AM local time, with preliminary investigations suggesting that the aircraft, bearing registration number 5N-BKI, departed from Abuja at approximately 8:20 AM before touching down in Lagos around 9:20 AM amid adverse weather conditions characterized by rainfall. The aircraft, carrying 83 passengers and 6 crew members, encountered technical complications with its landing gear upon touchdown, subsequently experiencing challenges with directional control, causing it to veer off to the left of Runway 18L.

Fortunately, there were no casualties or injuries reported as a result of the incident. However, as a precautionary measure, authorities temporarily closed Runway 18L at Murtala Muhammed International Airport.

Captain Alex Badeh Jr., the Director General of NSIB, asserted, “We have launched a comprehensive investigation to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the Dana Airline MD-82 aircraft’s runway excursion. A dedicated team has been deployed to the scene to conduct inquiries, ensuring a thorough examination of all pertinent aspects.”

The investigative team wasted no time in securing crucial evidence, retrieving both the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder for detailed analysis at NSIB’s laboratory. Additionally, transcripts from Air Traffic Control and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria will undergo forensic scrutiny. Crew members have been subjected to interviews and toxicology tests, while stakeholders, including the aircraft manufacturer, have been notified to provide input for the investigative report.

NSIB’s investigation will encompass various dimensions, including the airworthiness of the aircraft, operational protocols, human factors, prevailing weather conditions, crew health, maintenance records, and any historical incidents involving the aircraft’s landing gear system.

In adherence to international aviation safety standards, NSIB commits to releasing a preliminary report outlining basic findings within 30 days, followed by a comprehensive final report containing safety recommendations upon the investigation’s culmination.

Throughout the investigative process, NSIB pledges collaboration with pertinent stakeholders, including the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and other relevant agencies and experts. The overarching objective remains the identification of safety gaps and the formulation of preventive measures to avert similar occurrences in the future.

Director General Badeh emphasized, “Safeguarding lives and instilling public trust in air travel constitutes our paramount objective. We extend gratitude to affected travelers for their patience and cooperation as we diligently investigate and report on the circumstances surrounding today’s runway excursion.”

As the investigation progresses, NSIB assures regular updates to the public, urging continued patience and support. For further inquiries or media requests, NSIB can be contacted via info@nsib.gov.ng or through its social media platforms. Additionally, the Bureau can be reached on its emergency line at +234-807-709-0909.

About NSIB:

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau is vested with the responsibility of promoting transport safety and conducting objective, meticulous investigations into transport accidents and incidents within Nigeria. NSIB endeavors to identify probable causes and advocate for safety enhancements based on its investigative findings.