Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Alpha Jet pilots on Saturday, December 6, safely ejected following an in-flight emergency during a post-inspection functional check.
The aircraft developed an emergency shortly after take-off at the NAF Base Kainji, Niger State, prompting the pilots to act swiftly and with remarkable composure, military sources said.
“The pilots expertly manoeuvred the aircraft away from populated areas before executing a safe ejection,” NAF posted on its verified Meta account. The pilots sustained “only minor injuries” as they “managed to exit the aircraft.”
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, praised the pilots for their courage, discipline, and sound judgment, which he said prevented loss of life.
He has also directed the immediate constitution of a Board of Inquiry to investigate the incident.
NAF further acknowledged the prompt, coordinated and highly professional response of its personnel, including Search and Rescue teams, Fire and Crash Response units, and medical practitioners, who swiftly secured the area and ensured the safety and well-being of the aircrew.
