The management of Overland Airways has confirmed that fire gutted one of its Regional Air Transport (ATR) 72 turboprop aircraft at its hangar at the domestic wing of the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos on Friday.
The airline said in a statement issued late Friday that “our aircraft asset undergoing routine maintenance inspection was impacted by a foreign object which led to a fire that damaged aircraft parked at our hangar facility.”
It said the affected aircraft was not in public service “when the unfortunate incident occurred” adding that “there was no injury to any personnel, no loss of life and no third-party damage recorded.”
Besides, the airline said “our ultra-modern aircraft hangar was not damaged.”
The full statement reads: “The management and staff of Overland Airways express our deep appreciation to our industry stakeholders, customers, families, friends and the general public, who have expressed deep concern and support over the fire incident that occurred in our premises today (Friday).
“We were inundated with your phone calls, text messages and media chats, all too numerous to respond to immediately. In a lone incident this morning, our aircraft asset undergoing routine maintenance inspection was impacted by a foreign object which led to a fire that damaged aircraft parked at our hangar facility at the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Ikeja, Lagos.
“The aircraft was not in public service when the unfortunate incident occurred. The fire was put under control by a combined safety team of the Overland Airways and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Fire Service.
“We are very grateful to God Almighty that there was no injury to any personnel, no loss of life and no third-party damage recorded.
“Also our ultra-modern Aircraft Hangar was not damaged. We are currently investigating the cause of the incident and the relevant aviation agencies will be duly notified.
“Once again, we thank all parties in Nigeria and worldwide that have expressed sympathy over the incident. Indeed we are comforted by your voices as well as messages and reassured of your continued support.
“Overland Airways affirms our commitment to safety and excellence at all times.”
