December 06, (THEWILL) — A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Alpha Jet crashed on Saturday, during a post-inspection functional check flight at the Nigerian Air Force Base, Kainji, Niger State.
A video of the incident posted on the Facebook page of Lapai TV, an online television network in the state, said two pilots escaped from the aircraft before it crashed.
A statement by the NAF Spokesman, Air Cdre Ehimen Ejodame, said the aircraft developed an emergency shortly after take-off, prompting the pilots to act swiftly and with remarkable composure as they safely ejected from the aircraft.
“They expertly manoeuvred the aircraft away from populated areas before executing a safe ejection”, he said.
He said the crew were currently undergoing routine medical evaluation, adding that the CAS, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, commended the pilots for their courage, discipline and sound judgement, which prevented loss of life. He has also directed the immediate constitution of a Board of Inquiry to investigate the incident.
The Nigerian Air Force reassured the public of its unwavering commitment to stringent safety standards and operational excellence.
“The NAF remains dedicated to safeguarding its personnel while protecting the lives and property of citizens in line with its constitutional mandate”, the spokesman stated.
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