BREAKING: Major tragedy averted as aircraft from Enugu veers off runway at Benin airport

An aircraft arriving from Enugu veered off the runway shortly after landing at the Benin Airport on Thursday following heavy rainfall, with aviation authorities confirming that all passengers and crew members escaped unharmed.

The incident, which occurred amid a downpour, initially generated speculation that the aircraft had crashed. However, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) clarified that the plane landed safely before sliding off the runway due to the prevailing weather conditions.

The NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, dismissed reports describing the occurrence as a crash, explaining that it was a runway excursion triggered by poor weather.

“The aircraft landed safely but skidded off the runway due to the adverse weather conditions,” Achimugu said.

He also confirmed that no fatalities or injuries were recorded, adding that every passenger and crew member on board was safe.

A video circulating online showed passengers disembarking from the aircraft after it came to a stop in what appeared to be a swampy area beside the runway.

Attempts to obtain an official response from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) were unsuccessful. Calls placed to the agency’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Olubunmi Oluwaseun Kuku, were not answered as of the time this report was filed.

The exact circumstances surrounding the runway excursion were yet to be fully established, while aviation authorities are expected to provide further information as investigations continue.

(SAHARA REPORTERS)