The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has described as a display of courage and professionalism two NAF Alpha Jet pilots who safely ejected after their aircraft suffered an in-flight emergency in Niger State.
Aneke made the statement on Saturday night when he visited the pilots at the hospital in Abuja.
DAILY POST reports that a jet belonging to the Nigerian Air Force crashed near Karabonde, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.
The air chief hailed the aircrew for their sound judgment and exemplary discipline, noting that their swift actions averted potential casualties on the ground.
Air Marshal Aneke also ordered a Board of Inquiry to investigate the cause of the emergency.
“We commend the coordinated response of fire and crash units, medical teams, and other base personnel who secured the site and supported the recovery efforts.
“The incident occurred shortly after take-off during a post-inspection functional check flight at NAF Base Kainji.
“The pilots kept their composure, maneuvered the aircraft away from populated areas, and executed a safe ejection,” he said.
The Nigerian Air Force stated that both pilots were immediately recovered by Search and Rescue teams and are undergoing routine medical evaluation.
It added that the incident underscores the hazards inherent in military flying and the dedication of its personnel, who operate daily under demanding conditions to safeguard the nation.
NAF, therefore, assured Nigerians of its strict adherence to global aviation safety standards and its commitment to protecting both troops and civilians.
