This archive report was first published on 25 July 2019.
A remarkable display of skill and expertise by a Nigerian pilot has saved the lives of 139 people after she allegedly prevented a fatal accident at Lagos airport.
On July 23, 2019, Captain Simisola Ajibola, a pilot with Air Peace Airline, was at the helm of a Boeing 737 aircraft that lost both nose wheels while landing at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos state.
Due to reduced visibility, Captain Ajibola requested to land on the international runway, which is longer and wider than the domestic strip. The aircraft landed hard, causing the nose wheels to separate from the strut.
Despite the challenging situation, all 133 passengers and six crew members disembarked safely, although there was extensive damage to the runway and plane.
According to Air Peace Chief Operating Officer (COO) Oluwatoyin Olajide, Captain Ajibola noticed a sudden weather change when approaching Lagos and demanded to land on the international runway as it is longer and wider than the domestic runway.
After landing safely and rolling to the runway exit, the nose wheel developed a problem and partial collapse. The crew notified the airport authorities, who quickly ensured the safe disembarkation of the passengers via the passenger door.
Meet the brave Nigerian pilot who averted the near tragedy in Lagos airport.
