The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, NSIB, has commenced an investigation into an aircraft incident involving a Hawker 800XP operated by Flybird Aircraft Management Services Limited at the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport in Kano State. The incident occurred when the aircraft reportedly overshot the runway following a malfunction involving its landing gear during landing.
According to details released by the Bureau, the aircraft, with nationality and registration marks 5N-ISB, departed the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Sunday, December 14, 2025. The flight took off at about 9:20am local time as a non-scheduled domestic passenger service bound for Kano.
A statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance at the NSIB, Mrs Bimbo Oladeji, confirmed that there were eight people on board the aircraft at the time of the incident. These included two cockpit crew members, one cabin crew member and five passengers.
Mrs Oladeji explained that during the approach phase into Kano, the flight crew observed an anomaly in the landing gear indication system. As a result, the pilots requested to carry out several low passes over the runway to enable air traffic controllers to visually inspect and confirm the position of the landing gear.
According to the statement, the Kano control tower confirmed during each low pass that all three landing gears appeared to be fully extended. Following these confirmations, the aircraft was cleared and positioned to land on Runway 06 at the Kano airport.
The aircraft touched down at approximately 10:34am local time. However, during the landing roll, the nose landing gear reportedly collapsed. This led to the aircraft overshooting the runway before coming to a stop.
Despite the incident, all eight occupants on board the aircraft disembarked safely. The NSIB confirmed that no injuries were recorded among the passengers or crew members. Emergency response teams at the airport were activated as part of standard safety procedures.
The Bureau stated that upon receiving notification of the occurrence, it immediately activated its Go-Team, which is responsible for rapid response to transport accidents and serious incidents. The team was deployed to Kano to secure the site and commence preliminary investigation activities.
According to the NSIB, investigators will conduct a detailed examination of several key areas to determine what led to the incident. These include a review of the aircraft’s systems, particularly the landing gear mechanism, as well as an assessment of operational procedures followed by the crew during the flight and landing.
The investigation will also involve a review of the aircraft’s maintenance records to determine whether there were any pre-existing technical issues or deferred defects. In addition, the actions and decision-making processes of the flight crew before and during the landing will be analysed in line with standard aviation safety practices.
The Bureau emphasised that the purpose of the investigation is not to apportion blame or determine liability. Rather, the goal is to identify any safety issues, contributing factors or systemic weaknesses that may have led to the occurrence, with a view to preventing similar incidents in the future.
NSIB noted that aviation safety investigations are conducted in accordance with international standards and recommended practices, including those of the International Civil Aviation Organization. The Bureau said it will work closely with relevant stakeholders, including the aircraft operator, airport authorities and regulatory agencies, as part of the investigation process.
In recent years, the NSIB has handled several aviation, rail and maritime investigations as part of its mandate to improve transportation safety in Nigeria. The Bureau has consistently maintained that transparent investigations and timely safety recommendations are key to strengthening public confidence in the transport system.
The Malam Aminu Kano International Airport is one of Nigeria’s major aviation hubs, handling both domestic and international flights. Airport operations were reportedly managed in line with safety protocols during the incident, and normal activities resumed after necessary checks were completed.
While incidents involving landing gear malfunctions are relatively uncommon, aviation experts note that modern safety procedures, including crew training and air traffic control support, are designed to reduce risks and protect passengers in such situations.
The NSIB assured the public that it will provide additional updates as the investigation progresses and findings become available. The Bureau also reiterated its commitment to enhancing aviation safety through thorough investigations and evidence-based recommendations.
As the probe continues, stakeholders within the aviation sector are expected to closely follow the outcome of the investigation, which may lead to safety advisories or procedural improvements aimed at reducing the risk of similar incidents in the future.
