Rita Odafe
File image
Two individuals have been hospitalized following the emergency landing of a Diamond training aircraft under the management of the Aviation Training School in Ilorin, as reported by The PUNCH.
According to staff at the aviation training facility, the incident took place around 4:00 PM on Saturday.
This unfortunate event unfolded during a simulated instrument approach on Runway 05 at Ilorin International Airport.
A simulated instrument approach involves pilots relying solely on cockpit instruments for navigation and control, rather than visual cues.
During such conditions, pilots use a view-limiting device, like an IFR hood or goggles, which restricts their external visibility.
Thankfully, there were no fatalities, but both individuals aboard the aircraft were injured.
At this time, the condition of those injured remains unclear.
In the meantime, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has announced that an inquiry into the incident’s causes has started, as stated by the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji.
The agency noted that the aircraft crashed while undergoing a simulated instrument approach on Runway 05 at Ilorin International Airport, subsequently veering off the runway and coming to a stop on the grass shoulder.
The NSIB elaborated, “There were two occupants. Both sustained severe injuries and were promptly transported to a medical center under the guidance of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency. Consequently, the NSIB Go-Team is preparing to travel from Abuja to Ilorin for on-site analysis.
“The investigative team will secure the area, gather physical evidence, interview witnesses, and obtain operational records to understand the causes and influencing factors of this incident.”
Captain Alex Badeh, the Director General of NSIB, stated, “Our thoughts are with those affected, and we appreciate the rapid medical and emergency responses. Our priority is now to ascertain the details of the failure. Every investigation provides a chance to enhance safety. We are dispatching our team to Ilorin to ensure thoroughness.”
The Bureau encourages the public and media to refrain from speculation and await confirmed updates from official channels, emphasizing their commitment to conducting a meticulous, independent, and professional investigation aimed at improving aviation safety in Nigeria.
Olajide indicated that further updates will be shared as the investigation unfolds.
