The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has released its preliminary report on the December 6, 2024, incident involving a Hawker 900XP aircraft operated by Flybird Aircraft Management Services Limited.
The aircraft, registered as 5N-KAL, experienced engine anomalies shortly after takeoff from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, en route to Kotoka International Airport, Accra, Ghana.
According to the NSIB, the flight crew reported hearing “a loud bang from Engine Number 2” while climbing at flight level 260, followed by increased temperature and vibrations. “The crew reduced engine power and declared an emergency, requesting an air return to Abuja,” the report stated.
As the aircraft descended, Engine Number 2 experienced another temperature spike, and Engine Number 1 became unresponsive to thrust commands. Despite the complications, the aircraft landed safely at 18:16 local time. All four occupants—three crew members and one passenger—disembarked without injury, and no damage was reported to the aircraft.
The NSIB recommended a “detailed inspection of both engines to identify the root cause of the failure and thrust anomalies.” Additionally, a review of the aircraft’s engine maintenance records is ongoing.
Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, stated that the full preliminary report is available on the agency’s website. “The investigation is still in progress, and the final report will provide comprehensive conclusions and safety recommendations aimed at enhancing aviation safety,” she noted.
The NSIB is responsible for investigating transport incidents in Nigeria with the goal of identifying probable causes and improving safety standards.
