30 fatalities

1980-05-26: Fokker F27 Friendship (NAF904) — Nigerian Air Force — Forcados, Nigeria

Forcados, NigeriaFlight

On May 26, 1980, a Fokker F27 Friendship (registration NAF904) operated by Nigerian Air Force was involved in an aviation accident near Forcados, Nigeria in flight. 30 people were killed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781223912Data APIEditorial standards

A special flight carrying a Nigerian delegation from Lagos to São Tomé crashed into the Gulf of Guinea after encountering thunderstorm activity. The airplane went out of control and dove into the sea; all 30 occupants died.

Incident Overview

A special flight from Lagos to São Tomé crashed into the Gulf of Guinea several kilometers off Forcados. The airplane was carrying a Nigerian delegation comprising Government officials, Army officers, and journalists. None of the 30 occupants survived the crash.

Flight Details

The flight was en route from Lagos to São Tomé when it encountered poor weather conditions. While cruising in thunderstorm activity, the airplane went out of control, entered a dive, and crashed into the sea.

Weather Conditions

The crew faced poor weather conditions during the flight, specifically thunderstorm activity at cruise altitude. These conditions preceded the loss of control and subsequent dive into the water.

Aftermath

All 30 people on board perished in the accident. No survivors were found.