NSIB Begins Investigation Into Crashed Aircraft At Imo Airport

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced investigation into the aircraft that crashed at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, Imo State.

The accident which happened around 8pm local time on Tuesday, involved Skypower Express Cessna 172 aircraft with nationality and registration marks 5N-ASR.

The aircraft was originally en route Kaduna International Airport to Port Harcourt International Airport when the crew declared an emergency, necessitating a diversion to Owerri.

The aircraft subsequently crashed in the approach area of Runway 17 with four persons on board at the time of the accident and no fatalities reported so far.

The NSIB in a statement by its Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, said the Bureau was “notified of an accident involving a Cessna 172 aircraft, with nationality and registration marks 5N-ASR, operated by Skypower Express.

Oladeji confirmed that the incident occurred on Tuesday around 20:00 hours local time at Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, Imo State

“The aircraft was originally en route from Kaduna International Airport to Port Harcourt International Airport when the crew declared an emergency, necessitating a diversion to Owerri,” Oladeji stressed.

NSIB explained that airport emergency services were successfully activated and arrived on site promptly following the incident.

“Reports indicate that there was no post-crash fire, and the runway remains active for flight operations, with other aircraft taking off safely after the incident.

“Efforts are currently underway to coordinate the recovery and evacuation of the distressed aircraft from the crash site to allow for a detailed wreckage examination.

“The NSIB has officially activated its protocols in accordance with its mandate,” Oladeji said.

Speaking on the accident, the Director General of the NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., expressed deepest sympathies to the management of Skypower Express and expressed gladness that no fatalities were reported so far.

The Bureau added that its protocols have been activated, “and our team is already coordinating with authorities to secure the site,” adding that, “Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.”