An Embraer passenger jet flying from Nairobi to Mandera veered off the runway while landing on Friday, coming to a stop in nearby vegetation in an incident that disrupted flights but left all on board unharmed.
The aircraft, operated by EBB Air and bearing registration number 5Y-EBB, overshot the runway at Mandera airstrip after completing its journey from the capital. It is reported to have lost control during landing, before exiting the runway surface and stopping just beyond the airstrip.
Passengers and crew were safely evacuated, with no injuries reported. Emergency response teams moved quickly to the scene, securing the aircraft and ensuring the safety of everyone involved.
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“The aircraft overshot the runway during landing and veered off the airstrip, eventually coming to rest in nearby vegetation,” the report indicated.
Images from the scene showed the jet resting off the runway, partially surrounded by vegetation, as response teams worked around it. Airline officials confirmed that efforts were focused on managing the situation, including securing the aircraft and supporting passengers.
The cause of the runway excursion remains unclear, with investigations expected to begin immediately. Aviation authorities have yet to issue a formal statement explaining what may have led to the loss of control during landing.
Following the incident, the airline diverted all incoming flights scheduled for Mandera to Elwak airstrip until further notice. The move is expected to disrupt regional travel plans as assessments continue at the affected airstrip.
The Embraer jet involved is part of EBB Air’s regional fleet, known for operating domestic routes. The airline’s aircraft carries the slogan “Connecting Nations Together.”
While there were no reports of injuries or major damage beyond the aircraft leaving the runway, the incident has raised fresh concerns about operational safety at Mandera airstrip, a key transport link in the region.
Emergency personnel remained at the scene into the afternoon, working alongside aviation officials to document initial findings and secure the area. The aircraft is expected to undergo further inspection as part of the investigation.
Runway excursions, where aircraft leave the runway during landing or take-off, are among the most common aviation incidents worldwide, though they rarely result in serious harm when emergency response systems function effectively.
The airline assured the public that more details would be released once preliminary investigations are complete.
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