NSIB Retrieves Black Boxes as Probe Begins into Delta Aircraft Roadway Landing
Oru Leonard
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), has recovered and secured the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and Flight Data Recorder (FDR) of a Bombardier Challenger CL-601 aircraft involved in an unusual incident near Asaba, Delta State, as investigators intensify efforts to determine the cause of the occurrence.
The aircraft, bearing registration number N989BC and operated by VMO Aero Limited, was involved in an incident on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, during a flight from Lagos to Asaba.
According to the NSIB, the aircraft landed and subsequently departed from a roadway before the Bureau was notified of the occurrence.
Following the notification, the NSIB activated its emergency response procedures and dispatched a Go Team to the scene to commence investigations.
The Bureau said the successful retrieval of the aircraft’s Cockpit Voice Recorder and Flight Data Recorder marked a significant milestone in the investigation, as both devices are expected to provide critical information on the aircraft’s operations before and during the incident.
Investigators are also gathering operational, maintenance and air traffic control records as part of the ongoing inquiry.
The NSIB disclosed that it is working closely with relevant stakeholders and authorities in accordance with the Civil Aviation (Investigation of Air Accidents and Incidents) Regulations and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Annex 13 requirements.
Necessary notifications have also been made to the appropriate state authorities.
Director-General of the NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., said the Bureau responded swiftly after receiving information about the occurrence.
“The immediate deployment of our investigative Go Team and the swift recovery of the Cockpit Voice Recorder and Flight Data Recorder are critical steps that will help establish the facts of this incident,” he said.
Badeh expressed relief that no fatalities or serious injuries were reported and reaffirmed the Bureau’s commitment to improving aviation safety in Nigeria.
According to him, the investigation will involve analysis of the recovered flight recorders, examination of technical and operational records, interviews with relevant personnel and a review of other available evidence.
The Bureau also appealed to members of the public who witnessed the incident or possess photographs, videos, CCTV footage or any other relevant information to assist investigators by sharing such materials through its official communication channels.
NSIB emphasized that the purpose of the investigation is to establish the circumstances and contributing factors behind the incident and to make safety recommendations aimed at preventing a recurrence. It stressed that the investigation is focused solely on enhancing transportation safety and not on assigning blame or determining liability.
The Bureau said further updates would be provided as the investigation progresses.
