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Following the controversial diversion of the Nigerian national football team’s flight to Al-Abraq Airport in Libya, the pilot involved has provided insights into the incident that led to the Super Eagles’ disrupted travel plans.
In a revealing interview posted on X by Sports Journalist Pooja Media, the pilot clarified that the decision to redirect the flight from Benghazi to Al-Abraq was not within his control but was mandated by Libyan authorities.
“The original flight plan was approved for landing at Benghazi’s Benina Airport,” the pilot explained. “However, as we began our descent, Libyan authorities instructed us to divert to Al-Abraq, which is significantly further east and lacks the necessary facilities for international flights.”
Highlighting the operational challenges posed by Al-Abraq, the pilot underscored the airport’s limited infrastructure, including the absence of critical navigation aids like the Instrument Landing System (ILS) and VHF Omnidirectional Range (VOR). “Navigating to Al-Abraq required a visual approach, which is particularly challenging under nighttime conditions and marginal weather,” he stated.
Despite expressing concerns about the safety implications of the diversion, the pilot emphasized that his adherence to Libyan authorities’ directives was non-negotiable. “I repeatedly sought confirmation and expressed reservations regarding the safety and logistical feasibility of landing at Al-Abraq,” he disclosed. “However, the instructions were clear that this decision came from higher authorities and could not be overridden.”
The pilot’s account sheds light on the complexities and safety considerations involved in international flight operations, particularly in regions with limited aviation infrastructure. His detailed explanation aims to clarify the sequence of events that resulted in the Super Eagles’ prolonged stay at Al-Abraq Airport and subsequent withdrawal from their scheduled match against Libya in the African Cup of Nations qualifiers.
