The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced a formal investigation into the crash-landing of a Diamond training aircraft belonging to the Aviation Training School, which occurred at General Tunde Idiagbon International Airport, Ilorin, on Thursday, May 23, 2025.
According to a statement by the Bureau’s Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji, the incident took place at approximately 17:28 local time during a simulated instrument approach to Runway 05.
NSIB Director General, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., who led the investigative team to the site on Friday, May 24, confirmed that the aircraft’s data card has been recovered and analysis is already underway at the Bureau’s Transport Safety Laboratory.
“The investigation is focused on uncovering the causes and contributing factors of the occurrence,” said Captain Badeh Jr. “Our process is thorough, independent, and transparent. The safety of Nigeria’s airspace remains paramount.”
Preliminary findings indicate that the aircraft came to rest on the left side of the runway. Recovery operations are nearing completion.
Both occupants of the aircraft survived the incident and are reportedly conscious and receiving appropriate medical attention.
The NSIB has pledged to release a preliminary report within 30 days. Final findings will support the development of safety recommendations aimed at preventing future occurrences.
“The Bureau’s goal is not only to determine what happened and why, but also to ensure that the lessons learned enhance aviation safety standards across the country,” Badeh Jr. emphasized.