The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has successfully retrieved and secured the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and Flight Data Recorder (FDR) of a Bombardier Challenger CL-601 aircraft, registration N989BC, operated by VMO Aero Limited. This recovery is a key part of the investigation into an incident that occurred near Asaba, Delta State.
Emergency Response Activated
In a statement signed by the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs. Foluke Adebayo-Arowojobe, the NSIB disclosed that it activated its emergency response procedures immediately after receiving notification of the occurrence on June 10, 2026. An investigative team was promptly deployed to the site.
The aircraft, which was operating a flight from Lagos to Asaba, reportedly landed and subsequently departed from a roadway during the incident. According to the NSIB, the recovered CVR and FDR have been secured for detailed analysis. Investigators are also obtaining operational, maintenance, and air traffic control records relevant to the occurrence.
Collaboration with Stakeholders
The Bureau stated that it is working with relevant stakeholders and authorities in accordance with the Civil Aviation (Investigation of Air Accidents and Incidents) Regulations and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Annex 13 provisions. Appropriate notifications have been made to the relevant state authorities.
Director-General of NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., emphasized the importance of the swift deployment of investigators and the recovery of the flight recorders. He said, 'The NSIB acted promptly following the occurrence on June 10, 2026. The immediate deployment of our investigative 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.'
Ongoing Investigation
The Bureau noted that ongoing investigative activities will include analysis of the recovered recorders, examination of technical and operational records, interviews with relevant personnel, and review of other evidence. It also appealed to members of the public who witnessed the incident or possess photographs, videos, CCTV footage, or other relevant information to provide such materials to aid the investigation.
NSIB reiterated that the objective of the investigation is to determine the circumstances and contributing factors to the occurrence and to make safety recommendations to prevent a recurrence. The Bureau stressed that the investigation is conducted solely to enhance transportation safety and is not intended to apportion blame or determine liability. It added that further updates will be provided as significant developments emerge.
