The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reported progress in its ongoing recovery operation at the site of the crashed ATR 42-500 aircraft in Igbokoda, Ondo State, following a significant reduction in water levels.
The recovery mission, involving aircraft NAF 931, entered its 14th day on Sunday, October 18, with personnel continuing efforts to remove water and secure the crash location.
The Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja.
Water Pumping Improves Access to Crash Site
According to Ejodame, continuous pumping has helped lower the water level around the crash site, allowing recovery teams to make further progress.
He explained that personnel were working to remove most of the remaining water, although the pace of operations would depend on conditions at the location.
The Air Force said the process requires careful planning and sustained engineering support because of the difficult terrain and environmental conditions.
Engineers Reinforce Embankment to Prevent Collapse
Alongside the water removal exercise, engineers are strengthening the embankment surrounding the recovery area with sandbags.
The measure is intended to prevent the embankment from collapsing and maintain stability as pumping continues.
Ejodame said the technical demands of the operation highlighted the complexity of recovering the aircraft from a waterlogged environment.
The recovery team is therefore proceeding cautiously to protect personnel and maintain safe working conditions.
Air Chief Commends Recovery Personnel and Partners
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, praised the personnel and supporting organisations involved in the operation.
He acknowledged their determination, professionalism and ability to continue working despite the difficult conditions at the site.
Aneke also expressed appreciation to Hitech Construction Company for providing support to the recovery exercise.
The Air Chief said the Nigerian Air Force remained committed to completing the operation carefully and safely while supporting the investigation into the aircraft crash.
NAF Expresses Sympathy to Bereaved Families
The Air Force also acknowledged the suffering of families who lost loved ones in the incident.
Aneke extended condolences to the bereaved families, assuring them that the service remained mindful of their grief as recovery efforts continued.
He reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to a thorough recovery process and cooperation with the ongoing investigation.
The Air Force did not provide a definite completion date for the operation, noting that progress would continue to depend on conditions at the crash site.
