FCT: We won’t investigate Air Force plane crash – AIB

THE Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) has said it would not investigate the Nigeria Air Force plane crash that occurred  earlier today.

AIB said though it is its primary mandate to investigate aviation-related accidents and incidents in Nigeria, military accidents fall outside the purview of its mandate except when invited.

The bureau’s Public Affairs, General Manager, Tunji Oketunbi said this in a text message sent to the Punch.

“There was an accident involving a military aircraft. By the power established AIB-N, we do not investigate military incidents or accident except where invited. Please direct all your enquiries to the appropriate authorities,” AIB spokesman said.

Earlier today a military aircraft, King Air 350 crashed at the runway of the Abuja international airport.

Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika disclosed on Twitter that the aircraft reported engine failure en route Minna, Niger state.

Though it hinted at the possibility of fatalities, he, however, was silent on the number of people on the ill-fated plane.

But minutes after the tragic crash, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Vice Marshal, Oladayo Amao, in a short message stated that seven persons were aboard the flight.

Amao added that the crash occurred while returning to the Abuja Airport after reporting an engine failure enroute Minna where the seven airforce officers were meant to complete an assignment

He said, “Sadly, all 7 personnel on board died in the crash. I have ordered an immediate investigation into the incident; just as I urge the general public to remain calm and await the outcome of the investigation. I want to use this medium to commiserates with the families of the deceased”.

Meanwhile, Amao has ordered an investigation into the crash.

It is not known yet whether with the directive of the Chief of the Air Staff the AIB will swing into action to investigate the crash as this is  at the instance of the military.