The aircraft, said to be registered as FT-7NI was a trainer aircraft engaged by the Nigerian Air Force. Sources said the incident occurred on Friday evening.
Details as to the cause and related circumstances are still sketchy.
The FT-7NI is a trainer aircraft developed for the Nigerian Air Force. It is primarily used for pilot training and familiarization purposes. Some key features of the FT-7NI trainer aircraft include:
Dual Cockpit Configuration: The FT-7NI has a tandem seating arrangement with dual cockpits, allowing for an instructor and trainee pilot to be seated in the aircraft simultaneously.
Flight Controls: The aircraft is equipped with dual flight controls, enabling both the instructor and trainee pilot to have control over the aircraft during training sessions.
Instrumentation: The FT-7NI is equipped with a comprehensive set of flight instruments, including an altimeter, airspeed indicator, attitude indicator, vertical speed indicator, and navigation aids.
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Communication Systems: The trainer aircraft is equipped with communication systems that enable effective communication between the instructor and trainee pilot during flight operations.
Performance and Maneuverability: The FT-7NI is designed to offer stable flight characteristics and maneuverability suitable for training purposes, allowing trainee pilots to practice basic flight maneuvers and learn aircraft handling skills.
Safety Features: The aircraft incorporates safety features such as ejection seats and a robust airframe construction to ensure the safety of the crew during training flights.
Engine: The FT-7NI is powered by a jet engine that provides the necessary thrust for flight operations.
The FT-7NI trainer aircraft plays a vital role in the training and development of pilots in the Nigerian Air Force, helping them acquire the necessary skills and experience to operate military aircraft effectively.
The NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, confirmed this in a statement on Friday.
He said two pilots onboard the aircraft survived and were being observed in a military facility.
“Luckily, the two pilots on board survived the crash after successfully ejecting from the aircraft. Additionally, there was no loss of lives or damage to any property around the area of impact.
“Both pilots are currently under observation at NAF Base Hospital, Makurdi. Meanwhile, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has constituted a Board of Inquiry to determine the immediate and remote causes of the crash,” he said.