There was panic at the Ilorin International Airport on Thursday afternoon as a Diamond training aircraft belonging to an aviation training school crash-landed during a high-risk training drill.
The incident, which occurred around 4:00 pm, involved a simulated instrument approach—an advanced flying technique where pilots navigate using only cockpit instruments, often under restricted visibility.
Eyewitnesses said the aircraft veered off Runway 05 and skidded onto the grass verge before coming to a halt. Two persons were onboard at the time of the crash. Both sustained serious injuries and were immediately taken to a nearby hospital for medical attention.
As of the time of filing this report, their condition remains unknown.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has launched a full-scale investigation. A Go-Team of experts was dispatched from Abuja to inspect the crash site, gather evidence, and interview witnesses.
NSIB’s Director General, Capt. Alex Badeh, described the incident as “a serious reminder of the importance of aviation safety,” adding that every detail would be scrutinised to prevent future occurrences.
Meanwhile, the public has been advised to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information until the outcome of the investigation is officially released.
