ASABA, Nigeria— A privately operated jet mistakenly landed on the Asaba–Ogwashi-Uku Expressway in Delta State on June 10, 2026, after the pilot reportedly mistook the road for the runway at Asaba International Airport. The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has confirmed the incident and grounded the aircraft pending investigation.
Witnesses said the jet touched down on the busy roadway near Ogwashi-Uku at about 7:43 a.m. local time. Four crew members were on board, and all safely exited before being transported to Asaba by road. No injuries were reported. The aircraft later departed the location at 11:02 GMT and returned to Lagos without regulatory clearance, a violation of Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations. Air Traffic Control was only notified after the plane had already become airborne.
The NCAA said it immediately grounded the aircraft upon arrival in Lagos. The flight crew have been placed under regulatory review, and the operator’s permit for non-commercial flights has been suspended. The Authority has formally notified the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and is coordinating with the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident. Officials said all operational, airworthiness, maintenance, and flight-related records will be reviewed, and further enforcement action will follow.
Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo described the incident as a “serious breach of regulations and security protocols.” Aviation analyst Chinedu Eze added: “This is a wake-up call. Regulatory lapses and poor infrastructure contributed to this dangerous error.”
On social media, stunned Nigerians reacted with disbelief. One user wrote: “How can a pilot mistake a highway for a runway? This is terrifying.” Another commented: “We thank God no lives were lost, but this shows our aviation system needs serious reform.”
Civil society groups also weighed in. A representative of the Civil Aviation Advocacy Network said: “Every unauthorized landing undermines public trust in aviation safety. Stronger oversight is non-negotiable.”
The Asaba International Airport, opened in 2011, has faced criticism for navigation challenges due to its proximity to highways and construction zones. Experts say the incident highlights the urgent need for improved air traffic control systems, clearer runway markings, and stricter enforcement of flight protocols.
The NCAA reiterated its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of aviation safety, security, and regulatory compliance within Nigeria’s aviation sector.
