BY NGOZI ONYEAKUSI

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has released the preliminary report on its
ongoing investigation into the incident involving a Hawker 900XP aircraft, with nationality
and registration marks 5N-KAL, operated by Flybird Aircraft Management Services Limited.
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.
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. 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.
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. Further review of the engine maintenance
records is also ongoing.