The Nigerian Air Force has confirmed that its C-130 aircraft, undertaking a ferry flight for scheduled depot maintenance, has safely landed in Banjul, The Gambia, en route to Portugal.
The aircraft had earlier made a precautionary landing in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, on December 8, following technical issues, reports The PUNCH.
The crew and aircraft were temporarily detained but later released after a meeting between a Nigerian government delegation, led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Burkina Faso’s junta leader, Ibrahim Traoré, in Ouagadougou.
In a statement issued today, NAF spokesman Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame said the aircraft transited Accra, Ghana, in line with an updated flight plan, en route to Portugal via Casablanca for scheduled depot maintenance.
He explained that ferry flights for aircraft scheduled for maintenance are required to operate through designated airfields, with movements appropriately spaced in accordance with established aviation safety procedures.
The statement read in part, “The Nigerian Air Force confirms that its C-130 aircraft, which earlier made a precautionary landing during a ferry flight, has successfully continued its journey and landed safely in Banjul, The Gambia. This followed its transit through Accra in line with an updated flight plan, routing through Casablanca to Portugal for scheduled depot maintenance.
“Ferry flights for aircraft programmed for maintenance are required to operate through designated airfields, with movements appropriately spaced in accordance with established aviation safety procedures. All personnel are safe, and the aircraft remains serviceable.
“The Nigerian Air Force appreciates the host authorities in Ghana, The Gambia, and other countries overflown for the support extended to the crew, and also acknowledges the concern and goodwill expressed by Nigerians. The Service reassures the public of its unwavering commitment to the highest standards of safety and professionalism in all operations.”
