NSIB retrieves cockpit voice, flight data recorders in probe of aircraft roadway landing in Delta

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has recovered and secured the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and Flight Data Recorder (FDR) from the Bombardier Challenger CL-601 aircraft, registration N989BC, operated by VMO Aero Limited.

Recalled that the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) grounded a privately operated aircraft and suspended the operator’s Permit for Non-Commercial Flight (PNCF) following a ‘missed approach’ while attempting to land at Asaba and a subsequent unauthorised flight back to Lagos.

According to a preliminary report signed by Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the NCAA, the incident occurred on Wednesday, June 10, 2026.

Preliminary information indicates that the aircraft, carrying four crew members, attempted to land at Asaba Airport at approximately 07:43 local time but executed a missed approach due to yet-unspecified operational variables.

Following the aborted landing, the flight crew managed to touch down on a roadway in the Ogwashi-Uku area near the Delta State capital.

In a statement by Funke Adebayo-Arowojobe, Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, she noted that
following notification of the occurrence on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, the NSIB immediately activated its emergency response procedures, deployed a Go Team (investigative team) to the site near Asaba, Delta State, and commenced investigation into the incident involving the private aircraft that landed and subsequently departed from a roadway during a flight from Lagos to Asaba.

“As part of this rapid response, the aircraft’s Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and Flight Data Recorder (FDR) have been successfully retrieved and secured for detailed analysis. Investigators are also obtaining relevant operational, maintenance, and air traffic control records,” Adebayo-Arowojobe added.

The NSIB is coordinating with all relevant stakeholders and authorities in line with the Civil Aviation (Investigation of Air Accidents and Incidents) Regulations and ICAO Annex 13. Appropriate notifications have been made to the relevant State authorities.
Director General of the NSIB, Alex Badeh stated:

“The NSIB acted promptly following the occurrence on June 10, 2026. The immediate deployment of our investigative Go Team and the swift recovery of the Cockpit Voice Recorder and Flight Data Recorder are critical steps that will help establish the facts of this incident. We are relieved that there were no reported fatalities or serious injuries. Our commitment remains the advancement of aviation safety in Nigeria.”

According to Adebayo-Arowojobe, Investigative activities are ongoing and will include analysis of the recovered flight recorders, examination of technical and operational records, interviews with relevant personnel, and review of additional evidence.

“The Bureau urges members of the public who witnessed the occurrence or possess photographs, videos, CCTV footage, or other relevant information to contact NSIB.

“The objective of the investigation is to determine the circumstances and contributing factors and to issue safety recommendations to prevent recurrence. The investigation is conducted solely for the advancement of transportation safety and does not seek to apportion blame or determine liability.

Further updates will be provided as significant developments occur,” she added.