Enugu State-owned airline, Enugu Air, has confirmed that one of its aircraft veered off the runway after landing at Benin Airport on Thursday, assuring the public that everyone on board was safely evacuated without injuries.
The airline disclosed the development in an official statement published on its verified X account, stating that the aircraft experienced what aviation authorities describe as a runway excursion during landing operations.
According to the airline, all passengers and crew members exited the aircraft safely, with no fatalities or injuries recorded.
“Enugu Air wishes to inform the public that one of our aircraft operating into Benin experienced a runway excursion after landing today.
“We confirm that all passengers and crew have safely disembarked and there were no injuries or casualties.
“The aircraft has been secured and the relevant aviation authorities have been notified in line with established procedures. An assessment of the aircraft and the circumstances surrounding the occurrence is currently underway.
“As a result, there may be temporary adjustments to some flight schedules. Passengers affected by any changes will be contacted directly and provided with the necessary assistance. The safety of our passengers, crew, and operations remains our highest priority,” the statement read.
The airline explained that the aircraft has since been secured while relevant aviation authorities have been informed in accordance with established regulatory procedures.
It added that investigations and technical assessments are currently ongoing to determine the circumstances that led to the runway excursion.
Enugu Air also cautioned that the incident could result in temporary disruptions to some of its scheduled services as recovery operations continue.
The carrier assured customers that any passenger affected by flight changes would be contacted directly and provided with the necessary support.
The airline reiterated that passenger safety remains the foundation of its operations, stressing that every necessary measure is being taken to ensure the situation is handled in accordance with aviation safety standards.
Runway excursions occur when an aircraft departs the runway surface during landing or take-off and are investigated to determine contributing operational, technical or environmental factors.
Authorities are expected to carry out routine inspections and assessments before the aircraft returns to service.
