A Fly Bird HS 125 aircraft en route from Abuja to Accra experienced a rare dual engine failure mid-air, prompting the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) to launch an investigation into the incident.
In a statement on Sunday, NSIB disclosed that the aircraft, registered as 5NKAL, encountered technical difficulties shortly after departure from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. With four people on board—three crew members and one passenger—the flight crew first reported an issue with engine number 2 while climbing through flight level 240, en route to flight level 280.
The aircraft was about 25 nautical miles southwest of the VOR station VONUK at 17:54 UTC when the crew requested an immediate diversion back to Abuja. Clearance was granted, and the descent began. However, during the descent at flight level 230, the crew reported a complete failure of engine No.2.
“As the aircraft approached Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at approximately 5,000 feet, the crew declared a Mayday, citing the loss of Engine No.1,” the NSIB statement read. Despite the challenges, the crew managed to safely land the aircraft at Abuja Airport at 18:16 UTC, with no injuries reported.
NSIB confirmed that its “Go Team” is now examining the aircraft’s flight data, maintenance records, and other evidence to uncover the root cause of the incident. The investigation aims to prevent future occurrences and enhance aviation safety.
Further updates will be provided as new details emerge, the bureau added.
