On December 6, 2024, a FlyBird HS 125 aircraft, registered as 5NKAL, experienced a serious incident involving the loss of both engines during a flight from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, to Kotoka International Airport, Accra. The aircraft, carrying four individuals, encountered its first engine issue while climbing through flight level 240, en route to flight level 280. Specifically, the crew reported an indication problem with engine number 2. At this point, the aircraft was approximately 25 nautical miles southwest of the VONUK VOR station, a navigational aid. The time was 17:54 UTC. The crew immediately requested a diversion back to Abuja due to the engine indication. Subsequent investigations revealed that engine number 2 failed completely at flight level 230.
As the aircraft continued its descent and approach towards Abuja Airport, a second, more critical failure occurred. At approximately 5,000 feet, the crew issued a Mayday distress call, reporting the loss of engine number 1. Despite the harrowing circumstances of losing both engines in a relatively short timeframe, the crew remarkably managed to navigate the aircraft to a safe landing at Abuja Airport at 18:16 UTC. The successful landing averted what could have been a catastrophic outcome. This incident highlights the critical importance of pilot training and proficiency in handling emergency situations.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) promptly launched an investigation into the incident. The agency’s Go Team, a specialized unit deployed to investigate aircraft accidents and serious incidents, initiated a comprehensive examination of the event. Their investigation includes gathering evidence from various sources, conducting interviews with the flight crew, air traffic controllers, and maintenance personnel, and meticulously reviewing the aircraft’s flight data recorder (FDR), commonly known as the “black box,” and cockpit voice recorder (CVR). The FDR provides a detailed record of the aircraft’s performance parameters during the flight, while the CVR captures conversations within the cockpit, offering valuable insights into the crew’s actions and decision-making process.
The NSIB’s investigation also encompasses a thorough examination of the aircraft’s maintenance records. This aspect of the investigation aims to determine if any pre-existing mechanical issues or maintenance deficiencies contributed to the engine failures. The maintenance history of the aircraft, including its compliance with required inspections and repairs, will be scrutinized to identify any potential links to the incident. This detailed analysis of the maintenance records is crucial for understanding the root causes of the engine failures and preventing similar occurrences in the future.
The primary objective of the NSIB investigation is to identify the root causes of the dual engine failure and to contribute to the enhancement of aviation safety. By meticulously analyzing all available data and evidence, the NSIB seeks to draw concrete conclusions about the factors that led to the incident. These findings will be used to formulate safety recommendations aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future. The investigation’s recommendations may address various aspects of aviation safety, including aircraft maintenance practices, pilot training procedures, and air traffic control protocols.
The NSIB is committed to transparency and will provide further updates as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available. This commitment to public disclosure is essential for maintaining public trust and ensuring that the lessons learned from this incident contribute to the ongoing improvement of aviation safety standards. The investigation’s final report will be a valuable resource for the aviation industry, providing critical insights into the causes of the engine failures and offering practical recommendations for preventing similar incidents. The dissemination of these findings will play a crucial role in enhancing aviation safety worldwide.
