Four people are receiving medical attention after a light aircraft crash at Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo State. The incident occurred on Tuesday, involving a Cessna 172 operated by Skypower Express. Authorities confirmed that no lives were lost, and airport operations continued despite the accident.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), which oversees aviation safety and accident investigations, provided details of the incident in a statement signed by its Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji. The aircraft, registered as 5N-ASR, had taken off from Kaduna International Airport, destined for Port Harcourt International Airport, when the flight crew declared an emergency midair. This prompted a diversion to Owerri.
“The aircraft somersaulted on landing, but thankfully, there was no post-crash fire. All four occupants were safely evacuated and immediately taken to a nearby hospital for medical attention,” Oladeji said.
Airport emergency response teams were activated promptly, arriving at the scene within minutes of the crash. Officials confirmed that the runway remained operational, allowing other flights to continue normal takeoffs and landings, ensuring minimal disruption to airport operations.
Oladeji added that arrangements were in progress to remove the damaged aircraft from the runway to enable a thorough inspection and assessment of the wreckage.
In a related statement, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., Director-General of the NSIB, confirmed that the agency had launched its investigation in accordance with international and national aviation safety standards.
“We express our deepest sympathies to the management of Skypower Express and are relieved that no fatalities have been reported so far. The NSIB has activated its protocols, and our team is already coordinating with relevant authorities to secure the site. Investigations are ongoing, and further updates will be provided,” Captain Badeh said.
The Cessna 172 is a widely used light aircraft known for its reliability and versatility in training, private, and short-haul commercial flights. Skypower Express is a Nigerian aviation company that operates chartered and scheduled domestic flights using small aircraft. While accidents involving small aircraft are rare, they are often scrutinized closely to ensure compliance with safety standards and prevent future incidents.
Nigeria’s aviation sector has been steadily improving its safety record over the past decade, with agencies such as the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the NSIB overseeing strict compliance with international standards. Despite these efforts, incidents involving light aircraft continue to raise public concern, particularly around emergency response readiness and aircraft maintenance practices.
The NSIB’s swift activation of its investigative protocols demonstrates the system’s capacity to respond to emergencies and safeguard both passengers and airport infrastructure. Such procedures are vital for maintaining public confidence in air travel in Nigeria.
The crash prompted concerns among residents and travelers at Owerri Airport, one of the busiest airports in southeastern Nigeria. However, authorities assured the public that the situation was under control and that emergency services acted efficiently to prevent further damage or injury.
“Officials confirmed that the crash did not interrupt airport operations. Other aircraft continued normal takeoff and landing sequences, which is a testament to the preparedness of our airport emergency services,” Oladeji said.
The NSIB has a mandate to investigate all civil aviation accidents and serious incidents within Nigeria. Investigations typically involve examining aircraft maintenance records, pilot training and experience, air traffic control communications, weather conditions, and other operational factors.
Captain Badeh Jr. stated that the bureau is coordinating with Skypower Express, airport authorities, and other stakeholders to ensure a comprehensive review of the circumstances that led to the crash. The findings will inform safety recommendations aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.
“The investigation process is methodical and rigorous. It involves multiple stages, including technical assessment, witness interviews, and analysis of flight data. We will release detailed findings once the investigation concludes,” he said.