A Cessna crash in Owerri on Tuesday left four people injured after an aircraft operated by Skypower Express crash-landed at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Imo State.
According to the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), the aircraft developed a problem mid-flight, forcing the crew to divert before the incident occurred.
The NSIB confirmed the crash in a statement signed by its Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs Bimbo Oladeji.
Cessna Crash in Owerri After Emergency Diversion
According to NSIB, the aircraft involved was a Cessna 172 with registration number 5N-ASR.
The flight departed Kaduna International Airport for Port Harcourt. However, during the journey, the crew declared an in-flight emergency.
As a result, the pilot diverted the aircraft to Owerri.
During its final approach to Runway 17 at about 8:00 pm, the aircraft crash-landed and somersaulted.
Four Injured in Cessna Crash in Owerri
NSIB confirmed that four occupants were on board at the time of the crash in Owerri.
All four sustained injuries. Emergency responders quickly evacuated them and moved them to hospital for treatment.
However, officials have not yet disclosed details of their medical condition.
Importantly, the bureau confirmed that no fatalities were recorded.
Emergency Response and Airport Operations
Immediately after the crash, airport emergency services arrived at the scene.
“There was no post-crash fire,” Oladeji said.
Meanwhile, flight operations continued normally at the airport.
Other aircraft took off safely, and the runway remained operational.
NSIB Launches Investigation Into Cessna Crash in Owerri
Meanwhile, the Director-General of NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., confirmed that the bureau had begun a formal investigation.
“We are relieved that no lives were lost,” he said.
Consequently, investigators have secured the site and will evacuate the damaged aircraft for a detailed examination.
As of the time of reporting, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria had yet to issue official statements.
