The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority has grounded a Rano Air aircraft after a disturbing mid-air incident on Sunday involving engine failure and smoke in the cabin.
The aircraft, with registration number 5N-BZY, was flying from Kano to Sokoto when one of its engines reportedly caught fire mid-air.
Passengers were reportedly thrown into panic as smoke filled the cabin and flight deck, forcing the pilot to initiate emergency protocols.
Despite the first incident, the same aircraft was reportedly cleared by Rano Air to operate a return flight to Kano just hours later.
But shortly after takeoff, the aircraft began experiencing fresh issues and was forced to turn back making a second emergency landing in Sokoto.
The NCAA in a statement issued on Monday said the aircraft remains grounded and under investigation.
The Authority confirmed the engine one failure, presence of smoke, and activation of safety procedures. It added that engineers are currently working on the aircraft.
While assuring the public of its commitment to safety, the NCAA noted that flight cancellations are routine whenever safety concerns arise.
