Ondo crash: NAF chief orders stricter flight safety checks

Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, Chief of the Air Staff, ordered tighter flight safety oversight across Nigeria's Air Force following a fatal crash involving an ATR 42-500 aircraft, NAF 931, on October 5, 2026. Speaking at a meeting with branch chiefs and senior commanders, he stressed the importance of adhering to procedures, professional discipline and continuous safety improvements.

The directive reaffirmed the service's commitment to personnel safety, professional standards and accountability in light of the tragedy. Air Marshal Aneke directed commanders to closely monitor aircraft airworthiness, maintenance quality, operational procedures and aircrew competence. He also called for proactive safety monitoring and the swift reporting of potential hazards, emphasizing that flight safety is a shared responsibility.

Search and recovery operations at the crash site in Ondo State continue with the involvement of specialist teams. The Head of the Recovery and Investigation Team, Air Vice Marshal EOE Ebiowe, revealed that extensive mud excavation and water pumping were used to access the site. Satellite imagery, the Nigerian Navy's hydrographic survey team and divers aided the operation.

The constituted investigation board has begun work to determine the cause of the crash through a thorough examination of evidence and records. The Nigerian Air Force urged the public to avoid speculation until the investigation is complete, promising to support affected families and implement safety recommendations.