Aviation stakeholders demand probe into NAF ATR-42 crash, call for safety review

STAKEHOLDERS in the aviation industry under the Institute of Nigerian Aeronautical Engineers (INAE) have called for a thorough and timely investigation into the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) ATR-42 aircraft crash at Igbokoda, Ondo State, which claimed 25 lives on October 5.

INAE, on its own part, is geared towards efforts to advance aeronautical engineering, strengthen indigenous technical capacity and promote aviation safety in Nigeria

In its reaction to the recent NAF  crash, the institute also urged a comprehensive review of flight safety systems, including aircraft maintenance, airworthiness standards and operational procedures, to identify possible contributing factors and prevent a recurrence of the tragedy.

In a statement in Lagos by the President/Chief Executive of INAE, Engineer Charles Ebitei, the group said the institute welcomed the presidential directive for an investigation into the crash. It stressed the need for the investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident and ensure that lessons drawn from the findings translated into concrete improvements in aviation safety.

Expressing condolences to the Nigerian Air Force, the bereaved families and the nation, INAE said its thoughts and prayers were with those affected by the incident and acknowledged the sacrifices of officers and men of the Service.

The institute maintained that a credible investigation would be critical to determining the factors responsible for the crash and strengthening safeguards against similar occurrences.

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As the professional body representing aeronautical engineers in Nigeria, INAE emphasised the importance of maintaining high engineering standards, professional competence and a robust safety culture across aviation operations.

It noted that aircraft safety depends on several interconnected factors, including proper maintenance, continued airworthiness, compliance with approved procedures and effective operational oversight.

Against this backdrop, the institute offered to provide its technical expertise and professional support to the Nigerian Air Force and other relevant authorities, if required, to assist efforts aimed at improving aviation safety.

INAE further expressed hope that the investigation would provide the necessary clarity on the circumstances of the crash and support measures to strengthen safety within military aviation.