Two Pilots Survive As NAF Plane Crashes In Benue

Two pilots escape unhurt in the Nigerian Air Force FT-7NI trainer aircraft that crashed in Makurdi, the Benue State capital on Friday, 14th July 2023.

The incident occurred at about 4.15pm while the plane was on a routine training exercise.

Confirming the incident in a statement, Director of Public Relations and Information Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, said two pilots onboard the aircraft survived and were being observed in a military facility.

According to the NAF Spokesperson, “Luckily, the two pilots on board survived the crash after successfully ejecting from the aircraft.”

The statement further said; “Additionally, there was no loss of lives or damage to any property around the area of impact.

“Both pilots are currently under observation at NAF Base Hospital, Makurdi.”

“Meanwhile, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has constituted a Board of Inquiry to determine the immediate and remote causes of the crash”, Air Commodore Gabkwet said.