Abuja Airport Runway Briefly Shut Down After Private Jet Tyre Burst on Landing

Flight operations at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), Abuja, were briefly disrupted this afternoon, Thursday, November 13, 2025, after a private jet experienced a tyre burst upon landing, necessitating the temporary closure of the airport’s main runway.

The incident, which involved a jet whose details were immediately withheld by authorities, occurred shortly after touchdown, scattering debris across the tarmac and posing a safety hazard to other aircraft.

In line with standard aviation protocols, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) immediately implemented emergency procedures, issuing a notice to airmen (NOTAM) to suspend all landings and take-offs until the situation was resolved.

Quick Response Averts Major Crisis

The swift and coordinated response of FAAN officials, rescue teams, and the Nigeria Police Force ensured the private jet was successfully taxied off the runway. The runway surface was then thoroughly inspected and cleared of debris.

A senior official at the airport confirmed to journalists that the operation was quick and professional. “The incident was minor but critical to safety. The runway was shut down for a short period to ensure total safety compliance. Normal flight operations have now resumed,” the source stated.

While a few flights experienced minor delays as a result of the temporary shutdown, the prompt action averted a potential major crisis and prevented the prolonged diversion of air traffic.

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has been duly notified, and a full investigation into the circumstances that led to the tyre failure will be launched to prevent future occurrences and ensure continued safety on the runway.