Seven people have died in a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft crash that occurred just short of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA) Abuja runway.
NAF Spokesperson, Air Vice Marshal Ibikunle Daramola, said on his Twitter handle this afternoon: “This is to confirm that a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Beechcraft KingAir B350i aircraft crashed while returning to the Abuja Airport after reporting engine failure enroute Minna. First responders are at the scene. Sadly, all 7 personnel on board died in the crash.
“The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), @CAS_IOAmao, has ordered an immediate investigation into the incident. While urging the general public to remain calm & await the outcome of investigation, the CAS, on behalf of all NAF personnel, commiserates with the families of the deceased.”
The aircraft, King Air 350, reported engine failure enroute Minna.
The crash scene has been cordoned off and investigations has already commenced on the cause of the crash.
In August 2014, three new Beechcraft King Air 350i aircraft were delivered to the NAF and were being operated by the NAF’s 209 Executive Airlift Group (EAG), Minna, Niger State capital.