…NSIB launches protocol to coordinate recovery of distress aircraft from crash site

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) says it has been notified of an accident involving a Cessna 172 aircraft, with nationality and registration marks 5N-ASR, operated by Skypower Express, which occured today around 8.00 p.m. at Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, Imo State.

Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance at NSIB disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday evening.

According to the statement, 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.

It said the aircraft subsequently crashed in the approach area of Runway 17. There were four people on board at the time of the accident, with no fatalities reported so far.

Following the occurrence, airport emergency services were successfully activated and arrived on site promptly.

Speaking on the accident, the Director General of NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh, said: “We express our deepest sympathies to the management of Skypower Express and are glad that no fatalities have been reported so far.

“The NSIB has activated its protocols, and our team is already coordinating with authorities to secure the site,” said Badeh.

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 as 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.

It said further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.