Four people survived a plane crash-landing on Tuesday evening at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, in Imo State, aviation authorities have confirmed.
The incident involved a Cessna 172 aircraft operated by Skypower Express, which crash-landed at about 6:58 p.m. while approaching Runway 17, according to the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB).
In a statement signed by the NSIB Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Bimbo Oladeji, the aircraft, with registration number 5N-ASR, was travelling from Kaduna International Airport to Port Harcourt International Airport when the crew declared an emergency and diverted to Owerri.
Following the distress alert, airport police patrol units and emergency response teams were immediately deployed to the scene and successfully rescued all occupants on board.
The NSIB confirmed that no post-crash fire occurred, and flight operations at the airport were not disrupted, as the runway remained operational throughout the incident.
All four survivors were identified as crew members.
Two were reported to be in stable condition, while the remaining two, who were initially unconscious, were promptly evacuated to a hospital, where they are currently receiving medical care.
The Bureau disclosed that a formal investigation has commenced in line with its statutory mandate to determine the cause of the incident.
It added that arrangements are underway to recover and evacuate the aircraft wreckage to allow for a detailed examination as part of the investigation process.
The Director-General of the NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., expressed sympathy to the airline involved and relief that no lives were lost.
The NSIB assured the public that further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.