NSIB’s preliminary report on Flybird’s Hawker 900XP incident out 

Sade Williams/Business a.m.

A preliminary report on on-going investigation into the incident involving a Hawker 900XP aircraft with nationality and registration marks 5N-KAL, operated by Flybird Aircraft Management Services Limited, has now been released by the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB).

The incident occurred on December 6, 2024, during the aircraft’s climb out from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (DNAA), Abuja, en route to Kotoka International Airport (DGAA), Accra, Ghana.

The NSIB explained that during the climb at flight level 260, the crew reported hearing a loud bang from Engine Number 2, followed by a temperature increase and vibrations.

The crew reduced engine power and declared an emergency, requesting an air return to Abuja.

It added that while descending, Engine Number 2 experienced a second temperature spike, and the flight crew later observed that Engine Number 1 was unresponsive to thrust commands.

A statement by Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, director, public affairs and family assistance, said: “The aircraft landed safely at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at 18:16 local time, all four occupants – three crew members and one passenger, disembarked unhurt, and no damage to the aircraft was reported.

“The NSIB has recommended a detailed inspection of both engines to identify the root cause of the failure and thrust anomalies.

“It also recommended further review of the engine maintenance. The full preliminary report, containing initial findings, is available for download on the NSIB website. The investigation is still in progress, and the final report will provide comprehensive conclusions and safety recommendations aimed at enhancing aviation safety”.