Abuja: The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has praised the courage and professionalism of two NAF Alpha Jet pilots who safely ejected after their aircraft suffered an in-flight emergency in Niger State. Aneke commended the pilots when he visited them at the hospital in Abuja. He highlighted the aircrew’s sound judgement and discipline, noting that their swift actions averted potential casualties on the ground.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the CAS also ordered a Board of Inquiry to investigate the cause of the emergency. He commended the coordinated response of fire and crash units, medical teams, and other base personnel who secured the site and supported the recovery efforts.
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) stated that the incident occurred shortly after take-off during a post-inspection functional check flight at NAF Base Kainji. The pilots maintained their composure, maneuvered the aircraft away from populated areas, and executed a safe ejection. The service confirmed that both pilots were immediately recovered by Search and Rescue teams and are undergoing routine medical evaluation.
According to NAF, the incident underscores the hazards inherent in military flying and the dedication of its personnel who operate daily under demanding conditions to safeguard the nation.