ABUJA, NIGERIA – The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has released the preliminary report on its ongoing investigation into the incident involving a Hawker 900XP aircraft, recommending an inspection of both engines of the aircraft.

The bureau gave the recommendations in a preliminary report on Thursday.

The aircraft with nationality and registration marks 5N-KAL, operated by Flybird Aircraft Management Services Limited had an incident on Dec. 6, 2024, during the aircraft’s climb out from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (DNAA), Abuja, en route to Kotoka International Airport (DGAA), Accra, Ghana.

According to the report, at approximately 17:51 local time, saw the flight crew battling multiple in-flight complications before executing a safe emergency landing back at Abuja.

The report showed that the aircraft, with three crew members and one passenger onboard, departed from Runway 22 at 17:39 under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), climbing towards its assigned altitude of Flight Level 280 (FL280).

However, few minutes after at FL260, the crew heard a loud bang from Engine Number 2, followed by a rapid temperature spike and severe vibrations.

The report said that the crew, thereafter, reduced power to idle and declared an emergency to Lagos Control at 17:51:28, requesting an immediate return to Abuja.

The Captain assumed control of the aircraft while the First Officer managed radio communications; while the Air Traffic Control (ATC) instructed the aircraft to descend to FL180 and subsequently to FL050.

As the crew attempted to stabilise the aircraft, a second alarming temperature surge – this time peaking at 1098°C – was recorded on the failing engine during the descent to FL065.

Then, Engine Number 1 became unresponsive to thrust commands, leaving the aircraft without engine power.

At 18:12:19, the crew issued a second emergency call to ATC: “WE HAVE LOST TWO ENGINES.”

The crew maintained control of the aircraft towards Runway 22 after ATC granted final landing clearance at 18:13:01.

The First Officer made critical speed and configuration adjustments, instructing for Flaps 25 to be set at 18:14:22.

In the final moments before landing, the flight data recorder captured terrain warnings, but the experienced crew executed a controlled touchdown at 18:15:26.

Thereafter, the First Officer immediately informed Abuja Tower that the aircraft was safely on the ground.

According to the report, the aircraft had to be towed off the active runway since both engines had been compromised.

However, upon landing, Engine Number 1 regained responsiveness.

Emergency response teams, including fire services and an ambulance, were on standby at Link Alpha 4, but no medical intervention was needed.

“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.

“The full preliminary report, containing initial findings, is available for download on the NSIB_ website.

“The investigation is still in progress, and the final report will provide comprehensive conclusions and safety recommendations aimed at enhancing aviation safety.

InforealityNews recalls that Flybird Aircraft Management Services Limited, a Nigerian aviation firm specialising in aircraft management, charters, and maintenance, obtained its Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in June 2024.

According to the Bureau, the NCAA, which enforces stringent aviation safety regulations, has continuously delivered in it’s functions as an oversight agency.

NSIB promised to reveal further investigation results as they are unfold to the general public.