By Peace Udugba
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has confirmed an aircraft incident involving a private plane near Asaba, Delta State, and has launched an investigation into its unauthorized departure from the scene.
In a statement issued by the NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, the aircraft reportedly missed its approach and landed on a roadway in Ogwashi-Uku, near Asaba, at about 7:43 a.m. local time on Wednesday, June 10, 2026.
The Authority said all four crew members on board exited the aircraft safely, with no injuries recorded.
According to preliminary findings, the aircraft later took off from the location at approximately 11:02 GMT and flew to Lagos without obtaining the required regulatory clearance. The NCAA noted that Air Traffic Control was informed only after the aircraft had already departed.
The regulator described the action as a violation of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs) and said it is conducting a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding both the emergency landing and the unauthorized takeoff.
Upon arrival in Lagos, the aircraft was immediately grounded by the NCAA, while the crew members were placed under regulatory review.
The Authority also disclosed that it has notified the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau and is working closely with the aircraft operator and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency as investigations continue.
As part of its enforcement measures, the NCAA has suspended the operator’s Permit for Non-Commercial Flight (PNCF) pending a comprehensive review of its operational and maintenance records.
The NCAA reiterated its commitment to ensuring safety, security, and strict compliance with aviation regulations across Nigeria’s air transport sector.
