NSIB Retrieves Flight Recorders From Aircraft After Asaba Roadway Landing

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has recovered and secured the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and Flight Data Recorder (FDR) from the private aircraft involved in the widely discussed roadway landing incident in Asaba, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing investigation.

According to reports, the aircraft, a Bombardier Challenger CL-601 with registration number N989BC operated by VMO Aero Limited, made an unusual landing on a roadway near Asaba, Delta State, on Wednesday after departing from Lagos. The aircraft was also reported to have left the scene without obtaining the necessary regulatory approval.

In a statement, the NSIB disclosed that it activated its emergency response procedures immediately after receiving notification of the occurrence and promptly deployed an investigative “Go Team” to the location to commence a comprehensive probe.

The bureau explained that the recovered flight recorders will provide crucial information about cockpit communications and the aircraft’s performance during the incident. It confirmed that both the Cockpit Voice Recorder and Flight Data Recorder have been successfully retrieved and secured for detailed analysis as part of efforts to establish the sequence of events.

Investigators are also gathering operational documents, maintenance records and air traffic control data connected to the flight while working closely with relevant stakeholders and regulatory authorities in accordance with international aviation investigation standards.

Speaking on the development, NSIB Director-General Capt. Alex Badeh Jr. described the swift recovery of the recorders as a critical step in uncovering the facts surrounding the incident. He noted that the bureau responded immediately after the June 10, 2026 occurrence by deploying its investigative team and securing the flight recorders for examination.

Badeh expressed relief that the incident resulted in no fatalities or serious injuries, reiterating the bureau’s commitment to improving aviation safety across Nigeria through thorough investigations and preventive recommendations.

The unusual landing has attracted widespread attention within the aviation industry, particularly following reports that the aircraft touched down on a roadway before departing without returning to an approved airport facility.

The NSIB stated that its ongoing investigation will include an in-depth analysis of the recovered recorders, examination of technical and operational documentation, interviews with relevant personnel and a review of additional 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. It emphasized that the objective of the investigation is to identify the circumstances and contributing factors behind the occurrence and issue safety recommendations aimed at preventing similar incidents, stressing that the process is intended solely to enhance transportation safety rather than assign blame or determine liability.