The Chief Executive Officer of Enugu Air, Captain Tolu Ita, has clarified that the aircraft incident at Benin Airport on Thursday, July 23, 2026, was not a plane crash but a runway excursion caused by hydroplaning during the landing roll. In a video shared on the airline's official Instagram page, Ita stressed that the event should not be described as a crash or an emergency landing.
CEO Provides Clarity on Incident
“Safety is the foundation of who we are as an airline. We would like to provide a bit of clarity on what occurred. Following a scheduled flight from Lagos to Benin, the aircraft landed and, due to hydroplaning on the runway, experienced a runway excursion during the landing roll. We would like to reiterate that this was not a crash, nor was it an emergency landing, but it was a serious incident,” Ita stated.
No Injuries Reported
Ita expressed gratitude that everyone on board escaped unharmed. “Our thoughts have remained with the passengers and crew on board throughout this experience. We understand that moments like this can be unsettling and overwhelming. We are deeply grateful that all passengers and crew members are safe. Most importantly, there were no injuries or casualties.” She acknowledged that the incident was an overwhelming experience for those on board and affirmed the airline's support for passengers and crew.
Investigation Underway
Ita added that, in line with global aviation standards, a comprehensive investigation is underway in collaboration with relevant aviation authorities to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident. The Enugu Air aircraft veered off the runway after landing at Benin Airport on Thursday. A content creator later shared a viral social media video recounting the tense moments onboard and expressing gratitude for surviving the ordeal without injury.
