Aircraft Crashes At Imo Airport,  Investigation Begins

By Ayodele Oni

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), has confirmed that a Cessna 172 aircraft with registration number 5N-ASR, operated by Skypower Express, crashed at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, Imo State.

Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji, the Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance of NSIB, explained that the aircraft had departed Kaduna International Airport en route to Port Harcourt International Airport before diverting to Owerri after the crew declared an emergency.

According to reports, the crash occurred at about 8:00 pm on the airport premises, with four passengers and crew members onboard.

Oladeji said the agency had been notified of the crash.

According to the NSIB, the aircraft crashed on the approach area of Runway 17, but no fatalities have been recorded so far.

The statement said: “Following the occurrence, airport emergency services were successfully activated and arrived on site promptly.

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.”