NSIB Releases Preliminary Findings on Hawker 900XP Dual Engine Malfunction at Abuja Airport
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has released its preliminary report on the harrowing mid-air emergency involving a Hawker 900XP aircraft operated by Flybird Aircraft Management Services Limited.
The aircraft, bearing nationality and registration marks 5N-KAL, suffered a dual engine malfunction shortly after takeoff from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, en route to Kotoka International Airport, Accra, Ghana, on 6 December 2024.
The incident, which unfolded 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 NSIB’s preliminary findings have shed light on the sequence of events that nearly resulted in disaster.
The report revealed 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, trouble emerged just minutes later at FL260 when the crew heard a loud bang from Engine Number 2, followed by a rapid temperature spike and severe vibrations.
Reacting swiftly, the crew 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. 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, a more distressing development unfolded – 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.”
Despite the dire circumstances, the crew maintained control, guiding the stricken aircraft towards Runway 22. 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.
Following the landing, the First Officer immediately informed Abuja Tower that the aircraft was safely on the ground.
However, with both engines compromised, the aircraft had to be towed off the active runway. In a surprising twist, Engine Number 1 regained responsiveness after landing, raising further technical questions about the nature of the malfunctions.
Remarkably, all four occupants disembarked unscathed, and the aircraft sustained no physical damage.
Emergency response teams, including fire services and an ambulance, were on standby at Link Alpha 4, but no medical intervention was needed.
The NSIB’s preliminary investigation has highlighted critical findings, including:
Engine Number 2 experienced a sudden temperature spike at FL260, peaking at 1014°C, resulting in vibrations and the initial emergency.
A second temperature surge of 1098°C was recorded during descent to FL065.
Engine Number 1 became unresponsive during approach, compounding the emergency.
Engine Number 1 regained responsiveness post-landing, prompting further technical scrutiny.
Investigators are now conducting a detailed inspection of both engines and reviewing maintenance records to determine the root cause of the failures.
The NSIB has recommended a thorough analysis of the aircraft’s engine performance history and maintenance logs.
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 pledged continued oversight as investigations progress.
The NSIB has assured the public that a final report will be issued after a comprehensive review, with safety recommendations aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.
