A private jet operated by Triton Aviation lost its main cabin door shortly after take-off from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, forcing an emergency return and safe landing.

The aircraft, a Bombardier Challenger 604 with registration number T7-SEI, was operating flight DWC052 bound for Lagos on Thursday, 15 October 2026.

According to the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), the jet departed Runway 22 at about 16:12 UTC.

Approximately three nautical miles from the airport and climbing through 3,500 feet, the crew declared a “Mayday” after the door separated from the aircraft.

The pilots returned to Abuja and landed safely on Runway 22 at 16:34 UTC. Nine people were on board — three crew members and six passengers — and all were accounted for with no reported injuries.

The NSIB confirmed that the detached door has been recovered and secured at its wreckage hangar. Director-General and Chief Executive Officer Captain Alex Badeh Jr said the bureau has commenced an investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the occurrence.

The incident has renewed calls for stronger aviation safety measures and closer scrutiny of aircraft maintenance standards in the country.