What happened
On December 6, 2024, a Hawker 900XP aircraft bearing registration 5N-KAL and operated by Flybird Aircraft Management Services Limited departed Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (DNAA) in Abuja, Nigeria, bound for Kotoka International Airport (DGAA) in Accra, Ghana. The charter flight carried three crew members and one passenger under Instrument Flight Rules.
During the climb phase, while passing through Flight Level 260, the crew heard a loud bang originating from Engine Number 2. The First Officer, who was piloting the aircraft, noted rising temperature indications on that engine. Following a power reduction to idle, significant vibrations were felt. The crew subsequently declared an emergency and requested a diversion back to Abuja.
As the aircraft descended, the situation escalated when both engines ceased producing thrust. The Captain assumed control, and the crew confirmed via radio that they had lost power from both engines. Despite the critical nature of the failure, the crew maintained visual contact with the ground as they approached Abuja at approximately 5,000 feet. They executed an emergency landing procedure on Runway 22.
The aircraft touched down safely on the runway. Post-landing communications confirmed that Engine Number 1 regained some responsiveness to thrust commands after the stop. All four occupants disembarked without injury, and the aircraft was towed to the terminal apron.
The investigation
The Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) issued an interim statement regarding the incident. Investigators are currently examining the physical condition of both engines to identify specific faults or root causes for the thrust anomalies. A review of the maintenance records for the affected engines is also underway as part of the ongoing inquiry.
Findings
The investigation has established that the aircraft experienced a simultaneous loss of thrust from both engines during the climb out from Abuja. The crew successfully managed the emergency, executing a controlled descent and landing without injury to persons on board or damage to the aircraft structure beyond what is typical for such an event.