An aircraft operated by XeJet Airline experienced a runway excursion at the domestic wing of Murtala Mohammed Airport in Lagos State on Saturday morning.
Fortunately, there were no casualties reported, according to a brief statement released by the airline.
“XE Jet Limited has confirmed that one of their aircraft, an Embraer 145 with registration 5N-BZZ operating on behalf of NG Eagle Airlines suffered a runway excursion whilst landing at Murtala Muhammed Airport’s 18L runway this afternoon at approximately 12.29hrs,” the airline said.
“No casualties were reported. We are currently liaising with NCAA, AIB and NISB, and associated agencies and will issue a formal update in due course.”
The aircraft arrived in Lagos from Abuja and had about 52 persons on board.
Following the incident, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Board (NSIB) swiftly deployed a team to the site to assess the situation and initiate investigations into the circumstances surrounding the runway excursion.
“An aircraft belonging to XeJet Airline skidded off the runway at the domestic wing of Murtala Mohammed Airport this morning. A go team has been deployed to the site of the incident,” the NSIB said.
This incident occurred less than two months after a similar incident involving a Dana aircraft at the Lagos airport, which also resulted in no casualties.
However, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has directed the NCAA to suspend Dana Airline pending a comprehensive audit.
The directive from Minister Keyamo emphasized the paramount importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of citizens and travelers.
“In light of these incidents, arid with the paramount priority being the safety and well-being of our citizens and travellers, the Honourable Minister has directed that you immediately initiate the suspension of Dana Airline’s fleet until a comprehensive audit can be conducted,” part of a letter to the NCAA Director-General signed by the Permanent Secretary to the Ministry Emmanuel Meribole read.
“This audit should encompass all aspects of safety protocols, maintenance procedures, and financial health to ensure full compliance with our aviation regulations.”
