By Mick Oseji, Asaba
Passengers and crew aboard an Enugu Air flight escaped unhurt on Thursday after one of the airline’s aircraft veered off the runway shortly after landing at Benin Airport.
The incident, described in aviation terms as a runway excursion, involved one of the Enugu State-owned carrier’s Embraer regional jets.
Confirming the occurrence in a statement posted on its official X account, Enugu Air said all passengers and crew members were safely evacuated without injuries or casualties.
“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,” the airline said.
The carrier noted that the incident could result in temporary adjustments to some of its flight schedules, assuring affected passengers of prompt communication and support.
“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. We appreciate your understanding and will continue to provide updates through our official communication channels,” the statement added.
Videos circulating on social media showed the aircraft resting off the runway, prompting initial claims that it had crash-landed.
However, Enugu Air clarified that the incident was a runway excursion—a situation in which an aircraft leaves the runway during landing or takeoff—and stressed that there were no fatalities or injuries.
The aircraft involved is one of the Embraer regional jets recently introduced into the airline’s fleet for commercial operations.
The cause of the runway excursion has yet to be determined. Aviation authorities are expected to carry out a full investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
