A major aviation mishap was averted on Tuesday night when a Cessna 172 aircraft operated by Skypower Express crash-landed and somersaulted at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, Imo State.

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) confirmed the incident in a statement signed by its Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs Bimbo Oladeji.

The aircraft, with registration number 5N-ASR, was en route from Kaduna International Airport to Port Harcourt International Airport when the crew declared an in-flight emergency and diverted to Owerri.

According to NSIB, the accident occurred at about 8:00 pm during approach to Runway 17. All four occupants on board survived but were hospitalised following the incident. Their medical condition could not be independently confirmed as of the time of filing this report.

An airport worker, who spoke anonymously, said the victims were taken to a hospital shortly after the crash.

NSIB stated that airport emergency response services were immediately activated, adding that there was no post-crash fire. Flight operations at the airport were not disrupted, as the runway remained operational and other aircraft took off safely after the incident.

Efforts are ongoing to evacuate the damaged aircraft to allow for a detailed examination.

The Director-General of NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., said the bureau has commenced a full investigation.

“We express our deepest sympathies to the management of Skypower Express and are relieved that no fatalities have been recorded. The NSIB has activated its investigation protocols and is coordinating with relevant authorities to secure the site,” he said.

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) had yet to issue official statements on the incident.