The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has recovered the cockpit voice recorder (CVR), a key component of the aircraft’s black box, as investigations into the crash of its ATR-42 aircraft in Igbokoda, Ondo State, gather momentum.
NAF said the recovered CVR was found intact by technical teams from the Air Force and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), raising hopes of uncovering the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
In a statement on Friday, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed that part of the Flight Data Recorder (FDR), also known as the black box, has also been recovered, while efforts are continuing to retrieve the remaining section.
According to him, additional aircraft wreckage, engine components and human remains have also been recovered from the crash site.
He explained that recovery operations are still ongoing despite the difficult swampy terrain, with personnel working to recover outstanding components needed for detailed technical examinations.
Ejodame said the investigation is being conducted with due diligence to ensure comprehensive, evidence-based findings that will establish the cause of the accident.
He added that the Directorate of Identification and Classification (DIC) is carefully handling the recovered human remains to ensure proper identification before they are released to the victims’ families.
The Air Force also said it has maintained close engagement with the families of those who died in the crash, providing updates and support throughout the recovery process.
NAF further noted that it is working with relevant authorities to address environmental concerns raised by the host community, describing such engagements as an important part of its overall response to the incident.
