Why our aircraft skid off runway – United Nigeria airlines

In response to the recent incident where a United Nigeria Airlines aircraft skidded off the runway during landing, the airline has released a statement explaining the cause behind the incident.

According to United Airlines, the aircraft, with registration number U5 0513, encountered aquaplaning due to heavy rainfall during its descent at Murtala Mohammed Airport in Lagos on Friday.

The aquaplaning, also known as hydroplaning, occurs when a layer of water on the runway prevents the aircraft’s tires from making proper contact, causing it to lose traction and slide.

According to the statement by the Head Corporate Communications, Achilleus-Chud Uchegbu, the flight had successfully operated and landed at its destination, having arrived from the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri.

However, upon touching down in the downpour, the plane’s tires lost grip on the wet surface, resulting in the skid off the runway.

The statement reads,” A United Nigeria Airlines flight U5 0513 operated by its aircraft with registration 5N-BWY upon landing at Murtala Mohammed Airport Lagos aquaplaned due to a downpour.

“The aircraft which was coming in from the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport Owerri operated and landed normally but skidded off the runway upon landing. All Passengers have also been safely evacuated alongside their luggage. No passenger was hurt in the incident.

Relevant authorities have been informed about the incident.

“Passenger safety is of utmost priority to  United Nigeria Airlines. We assure our passengers that we value their safety and will not compromise on it. We shall continually work, like we have always done, to ensure that our passengers are always united with their destinations safely.”