NAF recovers cockpit voice recorder from Ondo crash site
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says it has recovered the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) from the wreckage of its aircraft that crashed in Igbokoda community, Ondo State, in October.
The Air Force also disclosed that efforts were ongoing to retrieve the remaining components of the aircraft to facilitate a comprehensive investigation into the incident.
Ehimen Ejodame, NAF director of public relations and information, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday.
The cockpit voice recorder, a component of an aircraft’s black box, captures audio conversations and sounds within the flight deck and is used in investigating air accidents and incidents.
The aircraft, a NAF 931, crashed into the Igbokoda swamps on October 5, killing all 25 people on board, comprising five crew members and 20 passengers.
The Air Force had said the aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred. It subsequently released the names of the 25 victims.
Providing an update on the recovery operation, Ejodame said additional aircraft wreckage, engine components and human remains had also been retrieved from the crash site.
He said the recovery exercise was continuing to ensure that all outstanding components were retrieved for necessary technical examinations.
“The investigation is being conducted with due diligence to ensure comprehensive, evidence-based findings,” the statement reads.
The NAF spokesperson said the Directorate of Identification and Classification was handling the necessary procedures to ensure the proper identification of recovered human remains.
He added that the Air Force had maintained contact with the victims’ families to provide information and support.
According to him, the NAF is also engaging relevant authorities over environmental concerns raised by the host community.
The Air Force appealed to the public to exercise patience, noting that the recovery and investigation processes required time, careful coordination and professional attention.
It said the investigation was aimed at establishing the circumstances surrounding the crash and identifying lessons that could strengthen flight safety, improve air operations and protect the lives of personnel and civilians.
The NAF assured the public that it would provide verified updates as the investigation progresses.
