By Adesina Soyooye
Nigeria was saved a national disaster Thursday when an Enugu Air Aircraft, carrying 70 passengers and crew, veered off course on landing at the Benin Airport, and found itself in the nearby bush. The incident has been described by the Management of the Airline as “tarmac incursion.”
A passenger on board, who declined to give his name told this magazine that screams were the order inside the aircraft as it “furiously veered into the bush.”
Mercifully, no life was lost, and, there were no serious injuries as passengers and crew of the Aircraft with registration number, 5N-ENR were safely evacuated.
As they made their way out of the bush, one lady was weeping profusely, asking for the whereabouts of her father. Apparently, both father and daughter were on board the Aircraft. Another passenger was heard saying: “As I don survive this one, I don survive.” Many were shouting: “Thank you Jesus, thank you God.”
Expectedly, no explanation has been given, yet, as to why the aircraft suddenly veered off course after landing safely, but the Management of the Airline, in a statement shortly after the incident, confirmed there were no fatalities or injuries and addressed their passengers thus:
“Dear Valued Passengers,
“Enugu Air wishes to inform the public that one of our aircraft operating into Benin experienced a runway incursion after landing today (Thursday)
“We confirm that all passengers and crew have safely disembarked and there were no injuries or casualties.
“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.
“As a result, there may be temporary adjustments to some flight schedules. Passengers affected by any changes will be contacted directly and provided with the necessary assistance.
“The safety of our passengers, crew, and operations remains our highest priority. We appreciate your understanding and will continue to provide updates through our official communication channels.
“Warm regards,
“Enugu Air”
The Airline is owned by the Enugu State Government. To bring it to fruition, the Government entered into an agreement with XE Jet, a Nigerian indigenous operator.
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