NSIB begins probe as Flybird aircraft overshoots runway at Kano airport

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced an investigation into an incident involving an aircraft operated by Flybird Aircraft Management Services Limited at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano State.

The aircraft reportedly overshot the runway due to a malfunction of the landing gear.

The Hawker 800XP aircraft with nationality and registration marks 5N-ISB departed Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Sunday, 14 December 2025, at approximately 09:20 hours local time, as a non-scheduled domestic passenger flight bound for Kano.

According to a statement by the Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance at NSIB, Mrs Bimbo Oladeji, there were eight persons on board, comprising two cockpit crew members, one cabin crew member, and five passengers.

On what may have caused the incident, the statement reads: “During the approach phase into Kano, the flight crew reported a landing gear indication anomaly and requested multiple low passes over the runway to allow air traffic controllers to visually confirm the landing gear position.

“Kano Tower confirmed on each low pass that all three landing gears appeared fully extended. The aircraft was subsequently positioned for landing on Runway 06 and touched down at about 10:34 hours local time.

“During the landing roll, the nose landing gear collapsed. All eight persons on board disembarked safely, with no injuries reported.”

The Bureau noted that upon notification of the incident, it activated its Go-Team.

According to the statement, NSIB investigators will examine the aircraft systems, operational procedures, maintenance records, and crew actions to determine the circumstances that led to the occurrence.

The Bureau, while assuring the public that the probe is not conducted to apportion blame or liability, but to identify safety issues and prevent future occurrences, added that additional updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.