By Peace Erewunmi

Aviation authorities have launched an investigation after an aircraft reportedly landed on the Asaba–Ogwashi-Uku expressway instead of the intended Asaba Airport in Delta State.

According to initial reports, the pilot mistakenly touched down on the road corridor believed to have been confused for a landing area before later taking off again.

The incident triggered immediate safety concerns, prompting the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to ground the aircraft and suspend the operator’s permit pending investigation.

Officials said the action was necessary to prevent further safety risks while determining the circumstances that led to the landing error.

The NCAA is responsible for regulating civil aviation safety standards in Nigeria and enforcing compliance among licensed operators.

Aviation experts say the incident raises concerns about navigation procedures, pilot situational awareness, and operational safety checks, especially in regions close to airport infrastructure.

Authorities are expected to review flight data, pilot communications, and operational protocols as part of the investigation.

As of the time of filing this report, further details on the aircraft operator and the exact cause of the incident had not been fully released.