The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has initiated an investigation into the runway incursion involving Aero Contractors Airlines. Concurrently, Aero Contractors actively collaborates with relevant agencies post the serious incident at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja this afternoon.
The Boeing 737, bearing Nationality and Registration Marks 5N-BYQ, experienced the serious incident around 10:47 am (Local Time) on 12th November 2023, upon landing at Abuja Airport from Lagos. The aircraft’s nose wheel became lodged in the grass verge while attempting to exit the runway via A4, resulting in the fuselage partially obstructing the runway. Consequently, the runway was closed, pending the removal of the aircraft.
In an official statement, Aero revealed that Flight NG 119 had 133 passengers on board, all of whom were safely evacuated through a controlled disembarkation. Managing Director Capt. Ado Sanusi expressed apologies for inconveniences caused, highlighting the swift removal of the aircraft from the taxiway with the assistance of the airport management.
Capt. Ado Sanusi further stated, “We are equally cooperating with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and NSIB as they carry out their investigations. Our mantra in Aero Contractors is safety, and our long history is a testimony to this.”
