NSIB Unveils Six Final, One Preliminary Accident Investigation Reports, Urges Proactive Safety Measures
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) hosted its 2nd Stakeholders’ Engagement and Press Conference for 2024, during which the Bureau presented six final accident investigation reports and one preliminary report.
These reports, covering aviation accidents and serious incidents between November 2021 and October 2024, highlight operational and mechanical lapses, as well as safety recommendations to prevent future occurrences.
Addressing a gathering of stakeholders, aviation experts, and the press, Director-General, Captain Alex Badeh Jnr., underscored the Bureau’s dedication to enhancing transportation safety through advanced technology and rigorous investigation processes.
“The insights within these reports offer invaluable lessons. It is imperative we act proactively to incorporate these recommendations into our operations,” he stated.
Final Investigation Reports:
- Bell 429 Helicopter (5N-MDA) – Nigeria Police Air Wing
Date/Location: January 26, 2022, Bauchi
Incident: Substantial damage during a mission conducted outside operational hours.
Causes: Poor planning, inadequate oversight, and lack of mandatory safety equipment.
Recommendations: Improved flight planning, compliance with operational hours, and installation of Flight Data Recorders (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorders (CVR).
- Embraer 145LR (5N-BWW) – United Nigeria Airlines
Date/Location: November 17, 2021, Abuja
Incident: Engine flameout due to No. 4 bearing failure; safe return with no injuries.
Causes: Neglected engine maintenance and insufficient diagnostic measures.
Recommendations: Comprehensive maintenance protocols and adherence to manufacturer guidelines.
- Embraer EMB-135BJ (5N-BXK) – Max Air
Date/Location: April 26, 2022, Abuja
Incident: Ground collision with a parked Nigerian Air Force ATR 42.
Causes: Congestion, inadequate marshalling, and poor crew-ground communication.
Recommendations: Improved apron management, enhanced marshalling protocols, and better communication practices.
- Beech Baron 58 (5N-CAG) – NCAT Zaria
Date/Location: December 31, 2022, Kaduna
Incident: Hard landing caused by door malfunction.
Causes: Improper pre-flight checks and insufficient emergency training.
Recommendations: Comprehensive crew training and adherence to checklist procedures.
- Boeing 737-800 (5N-MJQ) – Arik Air
Date/Location: February 3, 2022, Abuja
Incident: Collision with a conveyor belt truck due to brake failure.
Causes: Poor maintenance of ground handling equipment.
Recommendations: Regular equipment inspections and stricter regulatory oversight.
- Hawker 800XP (5N-JEF) – Aero Tak Limited
Date/Location: July 10, 2023, Abuja
Incident: Runway excursion following a high-speed unstabilised approach.
Causes: Fatigue, poor speed management, and lack of a Fatigue Management Programme.
Recommendations: Compliance with fatigue regulations and improved crew training.
Preliminary Report
- Sikorsky S76C+ (5N-BQG) – Eastwind Aviation Logistics
Date/Location: October 24, 2024, Atlantic Ocean near Eket
Incident: Helicopter crash resulting in eight fatalities.
Causes: Loss of control in adverse weather, defective altimeter, and poor decision-making.
Recommendations: Installation of FDRs, improved crew communication, and accurate weather reporting.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Captain Badeh urged stakeholders to adopt the safety recommendations outlined in these reports. “Let us honour the memory of those affected by past accidents by committing to continuous improvement in safety practices. Together, we can prevent future tragedies and uphold the highest standards in the Nigerian transportation sector,” he concluded.
The NSIB reiterated its commitment to fostering safer skies through enhanced investigative techniques and collaboration with industry partners.
