Jul 23, 2026

Chaos at Benin Airport: Enugu Air Jet Skids Off Runway — Survivors Describe Terrifying Moments

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in news

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Benin City, Edo State – July 23, 2026 – In a heart-stopping moment that could have ended in disaster, an Enugu Air aircraft carrying dozens of passengers skidded off the runway shortly after landing at Benin Airport on Thursday afternoon, yet every person on board walked away unharmed.

The Embraer 170 jet, registration 5N-ENR, operating as Flight 4264 from Lagos (LOS) to Benin (BNI), touched down around 1:57 p.m. UTC (approximately 2:57–3:10 p.m. local time) before overrunning the end of Runway 05.

The aircraft veered into a bushy area adjacent to the runway in what aviation experts term a “runway excursion.”

Enugu Air, the state-owned carrier, moved swiftly to reassure the public. In an official statement, the airline confirmed: “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.”

Reports vary slightly on exact numbers, with most sources citing around 68 passengers (some official tallies note 63 passengers plus five crew members).

All were safely evacuated with the assistance of Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) teams.

Witnesses described chaotic scenes as anxious relatives rushed forward, some passengers receiving precautionary hospital checks despite no reported injuries.

Heavy rainfall is believed to have played a role, with the aircraft reportedly cleared for landing before the incident.

The plane was quickly secured, and relevant authorities, including the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), were notified.

NSIB has deployed a Go Team to investigate the cause, preserving evidence and assessing both the aircraft and circumstances.

Enugu Air emphasized that passenger safety remains its top priority.

“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 added.

The carrier also warned of potential temporary flight schedule adjustments, assuring affected passengers would be contacted directly with assistance.

Videos circulating on social media captured the aircraft off the runway, fueling initial alarm before confirmation of the safe outcome spread relief.

This incident marks another test for Nigeria’s relatively young Enugu Air operations but also highlights effective emergency response protocols.

Aviation safety advocates are calling for thorough investigation to prevent recurrence, especially as wet-season conditions challenge runways across the country.

Passengers and their families expressed gratitude for the crew’s professionalism and rapid response by airport authorities.

As one social media user posted: “Thank GOD 🙏🏼”🏼“—sentiments echoed widely as the story broke.

No casualties. Swift action. Lessons to be learned. In an industry where seconds matter, today’s outcome in Benin stands as a testament to preparedness—even as investigators seek answers to ensure safer skies ahead.