The Flight Data Recorder from the Bombardier Challenger CL-601 involved in a roadway landing incident near Asaba has been recovered by the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB). The aircraft, registered N989BC and operated by VMO Aero Limited, landed and later departed from a roadway during a flight from Lagos to Asaba on June 10, 2026. Therefore, investigators have intensified efforts to determine the circumstances surrounding the occurrence.
The NSIB confirmed that it activated its emergency response procedures immediately after receiving notification of the incident. A Go Team was swiftly deployed to the site near Asaba in Delta State. Meanwhile, investigators commenced a detailed inquiry in line with established aviation safety procedures and international standards.
As part of the investigation, the Bureau successfully recovered and secured both the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and Flight Data Recorder. These critical devices are expected to provide valuable information about the aircraft’s performance and crew actions before, during and after the incident. In addition, investigators are gathering operational, maintenance and air traffic control records to support the analysis.
Flight Data Recorder central to NSIB investigation
According to the NSIB, the recovery of the Flight Data Recorder marks a significant milestone in the ongoing investigation. The Bureau is coordinating with relevant stakeholders and authorities in accordance with the Civil Aviation (Investigation of Air Accidents and Incidents) Regulations and ICAO Annex 13 requirements. Appropriate notifications have also been made to the relevant State authorities.
A statement signed by the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs Funke Adebayo-Arowojobe, said investigative activities are progressing as planned. The Bureau stressed that every aspect of the occurrence would be thoroughly examined. Consequently, all available evidence is being preserved and analysed to establish the facts.
Director General of the NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., emphasised the importance of the recovered recorders in uncovering what transpired during the flight.
He said: “The NSIB acted promptly following the occurrence on June 10, 2026. The immediate deployment of our investigative Go Team and the swift recovery of the Cockpit Voice Recorder and Flight Data Recorder are critical steps that will help establish the facts of this incident.”
Captain Badeh further noted that investigators were grateful there were no fatalities or serious injuries resulting from the occurrence.
He added: “We are relieved that there were no reported fatalities or serious injuries. Our commitment remains the advancement of aviation safety in Nigeria.”
The Bureau explained that the Flight Data Recorder analysis will form a key part of the investigation. Experts will review recorded parameters alongside technical documentation and witness accounts. Meanwhile, interviews with relevant personnel are also expected to provide additional insights into the sequence of events.
NSIB has urged members of the public who witnessed the occurrence or possess relevant evidence to assist the investigation. Such materials include photographs, videos, CCTV footage and any other information that may support investigators. Therefore, the Bureau encouraged witnesses to submit information through its official communication channels.
According to the agency, the objective of the investigation is to identify the circumstances and contributing factors behind the incident. The Flight Data Recorder and other evidence will help investigators develop safety recommendations aimed at preventing similar occurrences in the future. However, the Bureau reiterated that its investigation is focused solely on transportation safety and not on assigning blame or determining liability.
As investigative activities continue, aviation stakeholders will closely monitor findings from the recovered Flight Data Recorder and Cockpit Voice Recorder. Further updates are expected as significant developments emerge from the ongoing probe into the Delta aircraft incident.
