Airplane salvaged after runway skid at Ikeja airport

In a swift and determined operation spanning two days, emergency response teams have successfully recovered an airplane that skidded off the runway at Ikeja’s local airport, 5N-BZZ, after a distressing landing incident on Sunday afternoon.

The incident, reported at 3:03 pm on May 11th, 2024, prompted immediate action from the emergency services following a distress call received through the agency’s emergency hotline. Fortunately, no casualties were reported despite the challenging circumstances.

Efforts to salvage the stranded aircraft proved complex, necessitating a temporary suspension of operations overnight due to safety concerns. The decision to halt the recovery efforts until daylight was made by FAAN Regional Director, Mr. Arewa.

Resuming operations on Sunday morning, May 12th, 2024, the combined efforts of LASEMA Response Team, MMA Officials, FAAN Fire Service, and Aviation Security were instrumental in the successful recovery. The scene was meticulously managed to prevent further incidents, with the Agency’s Super-Metro and a private crane proving critical in the airplane’s return to the runway by noon.

The recovery operation required close coordination among all stakeholders, underscoring the importance of swift and efficient crisis management in such scenarios. The collaborative efforts ensured the safe and timely resolution of the incident, showcasing the preparedness and professionalism of the emergency response teams involved.

The incident highlights the critical role of emergency response agencies in maintaining airport safety and swiftly resolving potentially hazardous situations. The successful recovery of 5N-BZZ stands as a testament to the effectiveness of coordinated efforts in handling aviation emergencies, ensuring the continued safety of air travel at Ikeja’s local airport.