Two individuals have been hospitalized following the crash-landing of a Diamond training aircraft operated by the Aviation Training School in Ilorin.
According to staff members at the aviation training school, the incident occurred around 4:00 pm on Saturday during a simulated instrument approach on Runway 05 at Ilorin International Airport.
A simulated instrument approach—also known as simulated instrument flight—involves a pilot navigating the aircraft solely by referencing its instruments. To replicate instrument meteorological conditions, pilots wear view-limiting devices such as IFR hoods or goggles that restrict their view of the outside environment.
Although no fatalities were reported, both occupants sustained serious injuries and were promptly hospitalized. The current condition of the injured individuals has not yet been disclosed.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has initiated a formal investigation into the crash’s cause. In a statement released by Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji, Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, the NSIB confirmed that the aircraft veered off Runway 05 during the simulated approach and came to a stop on the grass verge adjacent to the runway.
The NSIB further stated that the two occupants on board were swiftly evacuated to a medical facility with coordination from the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency. To facilitate the inquiry, a specialized NSIB Go-Team is preparing to deploy from Abuja to Ilorin for on-site investigations.
Their investigation will include securing the accident site, collecting physical evidence, interviewing witnesses, and retrieving operational data to determine the cause and contributing factors of the incident.
Captain Alex Badeh, Director General of the NSIB, expressed sympathy for the injured and praised the prompt medical and emergency response. He emphasized the bureau’s commitment to uncovering the exact sequence of events, noting, “Every investigation is an opportunity to improve safety. We are deploying our team to Ilorin to ensure that no detail is overlooked.”
The NSIB also urged the public and media to refrain from speculation and to await verified updates, reaffirming its dedication to conducting a thorough, independent, and professional investigation aimed at enhancing aviation safety in Nigeria.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.