The Nigerian Air Force confirmed that its C-130 aircraft on a ferry flight for scheduled depot maintenance landed safely in Banjul, The Gambia, 14 days after detention.
The aircraft resumed its trip after earlier making a precautionary landing in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, on December 8 due to technical concerns.
Advertisement
Authorities in Burkina Faso temporarily detained the crew and aircraft, a development that drew diplomatic engagement from Nigeria.
The situation eased following discussions between a Nigerian government delegation led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Burkina Faso’s military leader, Ibrahim Traoré, in Ouagadougou, after which officials released both the crew and the aircraft.
The Nigerian Air Force stated that the aircraft later transited Accra, Ghana, in line with a revised flight plan before proceeding toward its destination.
The service explained that ferry flights for aircraft undergoing maintenance must follow designated air routes and airfields, with movements carefully timed to meet aviation safety requirements.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Nigerian Air Force spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, provided operational clarification on the movement of the aircraft and the procedures guiding such flights.
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.”
The Air Force maintained that the aircraft remained serviceable throughout the process and that all crew members were safe.
It also acknowledged the cooperation of the countries involved in facilitating the aircraft’s passage as it continued toward Portugal for its scheduled maintenance.