Amid heavy rainfall, an Embraer 145 operated by Xejet Airlines skids off Lagos Airport's runway, echoing last month's Dana incident. Concerns mount over aviation safety as Nigerians demand accountability. The recurrence raises questions about runway maintenance and emergency protocols, sparking fears and calls for urgent action.
An Embraer 145 aircraft belonging to the premium business class airline Xejet Airlines encountered a distressing incident earlier today, skidding off the runway at Lagos Airport and coming to rest in the grassy verge adjacent to Runway 18Left. The aircraft, bearing registration mark 5NBZZ, was en route from Abuja Airport with 52 passengers and three crew members onboard when the incident occurred, prompting immediate emergency response measures.
Sources within the airport reported that the Aerodrome Fire and Safety Rescue Unit of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) swiftly mobilized to the scene, initiating efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of those onboard. Runway 18 left was promptly closed to aircraft traffic as rescue personnel worked diligently to evacuate passengers from the stricken aircraft.
"Another aircraft belonging to Xejet Airlines has skidded off the runway at Lagos Airport," revealed a source familiar with the situation. "The incident unfolded around 11:29 am, as the plane veered into the grass verge near B5. Fire and Rescue personnel are on the ground, actively engaged in the evacuation process. At present, Runway 18Left remains closed to traffic."
This unsettling event highlights the challenges posed by adverse weather conditions, with experts attributing the aircraft's skid to the heavy downpour experienced in Lagos on Saturday. The safety of passengers and crew during such incidents underscores the critical importance of swift and effective emergency response protocols.
Xejet Airlines, renowned for its business class-exclusive services, operates primarily out of Lagos Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS). The airline's commitment to passenger safety and comfort will undoubtedly guide its response to this unfortunate occurrence, as investigations into the incident commence.
As authorities work to ascertain the precise factors contributing to the runway skid, passengers, aviation enthusiasts, and industry stakeholders await further updates on the situation, hoping for swift resolution and renewed assurances of safety in air travel.
