Two individuals have been hospitalised following the crash-landing of a Diamond training aircraft operated by the Aviation Training School in Ilorin, Kwara State capital.
The incident occurred at approximately 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, according to staff members at the school.
The aircraft was conducting a simulated instrument approach on Runway 05 at the Ilorin International Airport when the mishap occurred.
A simulated instrument approach, commonly used during pilot training, involves flying solely by reference to aircraft instruments.
During such flights, pilots typically wear view-limiting devices like IFR hoods or goggles to simulate low-visibility conditions.
Despite the severity of the crash, no fatalities were recorded. However, the two occupants on board sustained serious injuries and were promptly taken to a medical facility for treatment.
As of the time of this report, their medical condition remains unknown.
In response to the incident, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has launched an investigation to determine the cause.
This was confirmed in a statement released by the Bureau’s Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji.
According to the NSIB, the aircraft veered off the runway and came to a halt on the grassy verge.
“Two occupants were on board. Both sustained serious injuries and were swiftly evacuated to a medical facility, coordinated by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency. In response, the NSIB Go-Team is preparing to depart from Abuja to Ilorin to conduct on-site investigations,” the statement read.
The investigation team is expected to secure the crash site, gather physical evidence, conduct witness interviews, and retrieve operational data to determine the root cause of the accident.
Captain Alex Badeh, Director General of the NSIB, expressed concern and reassured the public of a thorough inquiry.
“Our thoughts are with the injured, and we commend the swift medical and emergency response. Now, our focus is on understanding exactly what went wrong. Every investigation is an opportunity to improve safety. We are deploying our team to Ilorin to ensure that no detail is overlooked,” he said.
The Bureau also urged the public and media to refrain from speculation and wait for verified updates.
“The NSIB remains committed to ensuring a thorough, independent, and professional investigation that supports ongoing efforts to enhance aviation safety in Nigeria,” the statement added.
Further information is expected to be shared as the investigation unfolds, according to the Bureau.