NAF has recovered an intact cockpit voice recorder from its October 5 Ondo aircraft crash site as recovery operations and investigations continue.
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has recovered the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) from its aircraft that crashed in Igbokoda, Ondo State, with technical teams confirming that the device is intact.
The recovery marks a significant development in the investigation into the October 5 accident, which claimed the lives of five crew members and 20 passengers.
NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed this in a statement on Friday, November 6.
He said technical teams from the NAF and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) confirmed that the recovered CVR was intact.
The Air Force also recovered part of the aircraft’s Flight Data Recorder (FDR), commonly referred to as the black box, while efforts to locate and retrieve its remaining portion continue.
The CVR records audio from the aircraft’s flight deck, including conversations and cockpit sounds, while the FDR stores information about the aircraft’s operation and performance. Both devices can provide important evidence for accident investigators.
Ejodame said recovery teams had also retrieved additional aircraft wreckage, engine components and human remains from the crash site.
He said the recovery operation was continuing to ensure that outstanding aircraft components were retrieved for necessary technical examinations.
“The investigation is being conducted with due diligence to ensure comprehensive, evidence-based findings,” the statement reads.
“The recovery process also involves careful attention to the proper handling of human remains, with the Directorate of Identification and Classification (DIC) undertaking the necessary procedures for proper identification.
“The NAF has sustained engagements with the families of the victims, recognising their need for information and support. Engagement with relevant authorities on environmental concerns raised by the host community also remains an important part of the broader response.
“While appreciating the public’s concern and interest, the NAF appeals for continued patience and understanding as these critical processes require time, careful coordination and professional attention.
“The ultimate objective is not only to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident but also to draw the necessary lessons to strengthen flight safety, enhance ongoing airpower operations and further safeguard the lives of personnel and citizens. The NAF remains committed to providing verified updates as appropriate.”
Recovery operations continue at crash site
The NAF 931 aircraft crashed into the Igbokoda swamps in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State on October 5 while on a routine mission from Benin City, Edo State, to Lagos.
The accident killed all 25 people aboard, comprising five crew members and 20 passengers. The Air Force subsequently released the names of the personnel and civilians who died.
The difficult swamp terrain initially hampered recovery efforts, prompting the deployment of additional equipment and personnel to the location.
The NAF has maintained that the recovery operation is necessary to retrieve outstanding aircraft components and support the ongoing investigation.
The recovery of the CVR and part of the FDR provides investigators with additional material to examine as they work to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident.
However, the recovery of the recorders does not, by itself, establish the cause of the crash. The findings will depend on the technical examination of the recovered evidence and other relevant aspects of the investigation.
