Five Escape Death As Cargo Plane Skids Off Runway At Abuja Airport

An Allied Air Cargo aircraft, with the registration number 5N-JRT, was involved in a harrowing incident at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, after suffering a tyre burst, causing it to skid off the runway.

Despite the alarming nature of the incident, all five individuals on board, including crew members, were safely evacuated, with no injuries reported.

The plane had been arriving at the airport and was attempting to land when the tyre burst occurred, triggering the dramatic skid on Runway 22.

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Immediately after the aircraft came to a stop, emergency responders swiftly moved in, ensuring the safety of everyone involved. Authorities promptly closed the runway for clearance operations, leading to significant delays in several departing flights.

A statement from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), issued by Obiageli Orah, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, confirmed that emergency protocols were followed.

“At 10:05 am, the aircraft skidded off Runway 22 with five souls on board.

“There were no reported injuries. The passengers and crew were safely evacuated and taken to the FAAN clinic for precautionary checks. Our emergency response team is on-site, and accident investigators are working to clear the runway,” he said.

FAAN has assured the public that the runway will be reopened as soon as possible, urging patience while the runway is cleared.

The aviation body also expressed gratitude to the aviation community and the general public for their understanding during the disruptions.

“We appreciate the cooperation of all stakeholders and the public as we work diligently to restore normalcy,” the statement added.