On November 12, 2023, a Cally Air Boeing 737-300, operating on behalf of Aero Contractors, experienced a runway excursion while vacating the runway at Abuja, Nigeria. The aircraft, with registration 5N-BYQ, was performing flight N2-119 from Lagos to Abujaspeed.
The incident occurred after the aircraft had landed on Abuja's runway 22 at 11:46 local time and had slowed to taxi speed. While attempting to exit the runway via taxiway A4, the aircraft's nose gear veered off the paved surface of the runway. As a result, the aircraft became immobilized on the runway. The aircraft had to be towed off the runway. There were no immediate reports of injuries or significant damage to the aircraft. The exact cause of the incident is still under investigation.
Cally Air is a Nigerian airline that operates domestic flights within Nigeria. The Boeing 737-300 involved in the incident is part of the airline's fleet, which also includes other models of the Boeing 737 family. This incident underscores the importance of rigorous safety procedures and protocols in aviation. It serves as a reminder for airlines and aviation authorities worldwide to continually review and update their safety measures to ensure the well-being of passengers and crew.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other relevant authorities are expected to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident. The findings of this investigation will be crucial in preventing similar incidents in the future and enhancing the overall safety of aviation operations.