NSIB Probes Flybird Private Jet Emergency Landing At Kano Airport

Report on NSIB Investigation into Flybird Private Jet Emergency Landing at Kano Airport

On December 14, 2025, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) announced the commencement of an investigation into an emergency landing incident involving a Hawker 800XP private jet operated by Flybird Aircraft Management Services Limited. The aircraft, bearing nationality and registration marks 5N-ISB, experienced a landing gear malfunction during its approach to Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano State.

Flight Details

The private jet departed Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at approximately 09:20 hours local time on December 14, 2025. It was a non-scheduled domestic passenger flight bound for Kano. On board were eight individuals: two cockpit crew members, one cabin crew member, and five passengers.

Incident Description

During the approach phase into Kano, the flight crew reported a landing gear indication anomaly. To confirm the gear’s status, the crew requested multiple low passes over the runway, allowing air traffic controllers to visually inspect the landing gear position. Kano Tower confirmed on each pass that all three landing gears appeared fully extended.

At approximately 10:34 hours local time, the aircraft was cleared to land on Runway 06. Upon touchdown, however, the nose landing gear collapsed during the landing roll. Despite the mechanical failure, all eight occupants disembarked safely without injuries.

Immediate Response

Following the incident, the NSIB activated its Go-Team to begin a thorough investigation. The Bureau confirmed that its investigators would examine the aircraft’s systems, operational procedures, maintenance records, and crew actions to determine the circumstances that led to the occurrence.

Official Statement

According to Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance at NSIB, the investigation is not intended to apportion blame or liability. Instead, its purpose is to identify safety issues and prevent future occurrences. The Bureau assured the public that updates would be provided as the investigation progresses.

Conflicting Reports

While NSIB’s official statement confirmed eight persons on board, other reports from airport sources suggested that there were 11 occupants, including three crew members. Regardless of the discrepancy, all individuals were safely evacuated without injuries.

Broader Context

This incident adds to a series of aviation safety concerns in Nigeria that have drawn attention to the importance of rigorous oversight and maintenance standards. NSIB has been actively involved in investigating multiple aviation occurrences, including helicopter crashes and training aircraft incidents, with the goal of improving safety protocols across the industry.

Let’s Take A Break

The emergency landing of Flybird’s Hawker 800XP at Kano Airport underscores the critical role of aviation safety investigations in preventing future accidents. While no lives were lost and no injuries were reported, the collapse of the nose landing gear highlights potential mechanical or procedural issues that require careful examination. The NSIB’s ongoing investigation will provide clarity on the root causes and contribute to strengthening Nigeria’s aviation safety framework.