The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has released a preliminary report on the December 6, 2024, incident involving a Hawker 900XP aircraft (5N-KAL) operated by Flybird Aircraft Management Services Limited.
The incident occurred during climb-out from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, en route to Kotoka International Airport, Accra, Ghana.
According to the report, at flight level 260, the flight crew heard a loud bang from ‘engine number 2’, followed by a temperature spike and vibrations. In response, they reduced engine power and declared an emergency, requesting an air return to Abuja. While descending, ‘engine number 2’ experienced another temperature spike and the crew observed that ‘engine number 1’ was unresponsive to thrust commands.
Despite these challenges, the aircraft landed safely at 18:16 local time. All four occupants – three crew members and one passenger – disembarked unhurt and no damage to the aircraft was reported.
Following its initial investigation, the NSIB recommended a detailed inspection of both engines to determine the root cause of the failure and thrust anomalies. A review of the aircraft’s engine maintenance records is also underway.
A statement by FAAN’s director of public affairs and family assistance, Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji confirmed that the full preliminary report is available for download on the NSIB website. The investigation remains ongoing, with a final report expected to provide comprehensive safety recommendations.
