NSIB Tasks NCAA on Inspection of Allied Air Aircraft
Samuel Mobolaji
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has called on the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to inspect all Allied Air aircraft for potential mechanical and structural vulnerabilities, specifically focusing on the flap and landing gear systems.
This recommendation was contained in a preliminary report released by the Bureau over the weekend after it conducted investigation into the incident involving Boeing 737-400 Freighter aircraft, with nationality and registration marks 5N-JRT, operated by Allied Air Limited on December 11, 2024.The investigation is still ongoing.
The aircraft, en route to collect cargo for the Central Bank of Nigeria, experienced a malfunction with its flaps during its final approach at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
Upon landing, the right main landing gear collapsed, causing the No.2 engine nacelle to drag along the runway.
The aircraft veered off the runway and came to rest on the grass verge. All six occupants onboard were unharmed, and no injuries were reported.
A statement by Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance, noted that both the Captain and First Officer held valid licenses and medical certificates,adding also that the aircraft had a valid Certificate of Airworthiness and had performed 101 landings since November 1, 2024, 85 of which used Flaps 15.
It added that all navigational and communication equipment, exceptthe Airfield Lighting Panel System, were serviceable.
“Weather conditions were favourablewith no adverse meteorological factors, no evidence of a hard landing was detected.and there were no snags recorded in the aircraft’s technical logbook.”, the statement reads.
The Bureau however said the next step is that further investigation will focus on a detailed inspection of the right main landing gear assembly; testing and examination of the aircraft’s flap drive system components, including transmission assemblies and actuators and further analysis on the main wheel tyres for any indications of failure or wear.
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