A Detailed Account of the Runway Excursion Incident
On December 11, 2024, an Allied Air Cargo Boeing 737-400 freighter, registered as 5N-JRT, was involved in a runway excursion at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, Nigeria. The aircraft was executing a domestic cargo flight, numbered 4W206, from Lagos Murtala Mohammed International Airport to Abuja. The incident occurred during the landing phase at approximately 10:05 local time.
According to reports, the aircraft touched down on runway 22 but veered unexpectedly to the right during the landing roll. It exited the paved runway, traversing a dried grassy area before its nose gear became lodged in a ditch. This serious incident led to substantial damage to the aircraft, particularly with the right main gear, which appears to have sheared off upon landing. Fortunately, the five crew members aboard the aircraft were unharmed and were promptly taken to a hospital for evaluation before being released.
Response and Safety Measures
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and Airport Emergency response teams were quick to respond to the incident. The runway was temporarily closed for recovery operations and to clear any debris. FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Obiageli Orah, emphasized the swift evacuation and safety of all individuals involved and stated that the runway would be reopened as soon as it was deemed safe for operations.
The Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has initiated a thorough investigation to determine the root cause of the incident. This investigation aims to prevent future occurrences by understanding the dynamics that led to the aircraft’s unexpected veering and runway excursion.
Historical Context and Allied Air Cargo Overview
This incident adds to a number of similar occurrences at Abuja Airport. Just over a year prior, on November 12, 2023, a Cally Air Boeing 737-300 also veered off the same runway in a similar manner. These incidents underline the importance of stringent safety protocols and constant vigilance in airport operations.
Allied Air Cargo, the operator of the flight, is a prominent Nigerian airline specializing in cargo transport. It operates a fleet of four Boeing 737 freighters, including one Boeing 737-800F and three 737-400Fs. The airline not only serves domestic routes but also connects to regional destinations such as Douala, Nairobi, and Libreville. Additionally, Allied Air provides services for major logistics companies, including DHL, enhancing its role in regional and international logistics.