Two injured as aircraft crashlands in Kwara
Two people have been admitted to the hospital after a Diamond training aircraft, operated by the Aviation Training School, crash-landed in Ilorin, Kwara State. The accident took place around 4:00 p.m. on Saturday during a simulated instrument approach at Ilorin International Airport.
During the simulation, the aircraft deviated from Runway 05 and came to a stop on the grass verge. Although there were no fatalities, both individuals on board suffered serious injuries and were promptly transported to a medical facility. Their current health status is still unknown as of the latest report.
A simulated instrument approach is a training maneuver in which pilots fly based solely on cockpit instruments, typically under visual restrictions created by devices like IFR hoods or goggles. This is a common training procedure for pilots who are preparing for low-visibility flight situations.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has initiated an inquiry into the cause of the accident. In a statement from the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji, the agency confirmed that its Go-Team is on its way from Abuja to Ilorin to carry out an on-site investigation.
“The team will secure the crash location, collect physical evidence, interview witnesses, and obtain operational data to identify the cause and contributing factors,” the statement revealed.
NSIB Director General, Captain Alex Badeh, expressed his condolences to the injured individuals and praised the rapid response of emergency services. “Every investigation offers a chance to enhance safety. We are sending our team to Ilorin to ensure that every detail is meticulously examined,” he stated.
The Bureau has requested that the public and media avoid speculation and wait for official updates, assuring that the investigation will be thorough, independent, and focused on improving aviation safety in Nigeria.
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