Nigerian Crash - Kills Nearly 100, Including a Nigerian Spiritual Leader

When and where did the crash / air tragedy occur? Abuja, Nigeria on Sunday, October 29, 2006.

Which airline was involved? ADC Airlines

What type of aircraft was involved? A Boeing 737 dating from 1983.

What happened? The captain of the flight seemingly ignored warnings from air traffic controllers and took off in the midst of a thunderstorm. The plane crashed shortly after take-off.

Fatalities or survivors? 96 people died, 7 to 9 survivors (reports vary). The spiritual leader of Nigeria’s Muslims - Muhammadu Maccido - died in the crash.

What was the cause / Who is to blame? An investigation has begun, pilot error is the suspected cause and weather may have been a factor.

Any further safety issues? Travel on African airlines has long been maligned for questionable safety standards. Several countries including those in the European Union, as well as the United States have urged airlines in Africa to improve their safety regulations.

Outcomes The Nigerian government has suspended ADC Airlines operating license. The International Civil Aviation Authority was already set to audit safety standards in Nigeria as this is one of a number of deadly crashes there this year.

Information about the airline involved ADC Airlines website