Flybird AMSL Assures Passenger Safety After In-Flight Incident

Flybird Aircraft Management Services Limited (AMSL) has reassured the public that all passengers and crew aboard its Hawker 900XP aircraft, registration 5N-KAL, are safe following an in-flight incident. The aircraft, en route from Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport to Kotoka Airport in Accra, Ghana, executed a precautionary return to Abuja without any harm to its occupants.

In a statement released on December 6, 2024, AMSL stated, “The Hawker 900XP experienced an in-flight issue during its journey from Abuja to Accra. All four individuals on board, including three crew members and one passenger, are unharmed. Our team is actively collaborating with aviation authorities to investigate the cause of the incident.”

Focus on Passenger Safety

AMSL emphasized its commitment to safety, highlighting that the crew’s professionalism ensured the aircraft’s safe return to Abuja. “We prioritize the safety and well-being of our passengers and crew. As a Nigerian company with global operations, we take pride in maintaining excellence and professionalism in aviation,” the statement added.

The company, licensed by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), has a strong reputation for safety and operational excellence. AMSL expressed gratitude to its crew and pledged full cooperation with authorities to determine the root cause of the incident.

NSIB Investigates Incident

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has launched an investigation into the event. According to Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance at NSIB, preliminary findings revealed the aircraft encountered an engine No. 2 indication issue while climbing to flight level 280. The crew promptly reported the issue and requested a return to Abuja, which was granted.

The incident occurred approximately 25 nautical miles southwest of the VOR station VONUK at 17:54 UTC. The aircraft safely descended to flight level 190 and landed in Abuja without further complications.