AIB appoints investigator for Tema aircraft crash

By Edward Acquah, GNA 

Accra, March 18, GNA – The Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau (AIB Ghana) has appointed Captain Paul Forjoe to lead investigations into the microlight aircraft crash at Tema.  

Mr John Wumborti, Commissioner of the Bureau, announced the appointment at a press conference in Accra following ongoing investigations into the crash near the Tema Municipal Assembly Daycare Centre, close to Oninku Drive Basic School.  

A microlight aircraft with registration number 9G-ADV crashed in Tema on March 16, 2026, killing two persons on board.  

Mr Wumborti said the Bureau commenced preliminary investigations immediately after receiving information about the incident, in line with its mandate.  

“We arrived at the scene to gather preliminary information to start investigations. So far, we have gathered the necessary data, interviewed eyewitnesses and documented the accident site to support the investigation,” he said.  

He said the wreckage had been secured to aid further technical examination.  

Mr Wumborti said he had formally instituted a full investigation and appointed Captain Forjoe, Head of Investigations, as Investigator-in-Charge.  

“I am pleased to inform you that I have appointed a seasoned investigator… Captain Paul Forjoe, who will lead this investigation,” he said.  

Mr Wumborti assured the public that the Bureau had the technical capacity and expertise to conduct a thorough investigation in line with internationally accepted standards.  

“We have very seasoned investigators and all the equipment needed. We follow global standard protocols to ensure that our investigations are credible and thorough,” he stated.  

On timelines, Mr Wumborti said although there was no fixed duration for completing investigations, the Bureau would provide an update within one month if the final report was not ready.  

“After one month, if we are not able to finish, we will update the general public on the progress made,” he added.  

The Commissioner appealed to the public, particularly social media users, to avoid speculation and rely on official information.  

“We want to plead with Ghanaians to tone down speculation and reach out to us for accurate information. We have what it takes to handle this investigation,” he said.  

He expressed condolences to the bereaved families and reaffirmed the Bureau’s commitment to determining the cause of the accident. 

Captain Forjoe accepted the appointment and expressed appreciation for the confidence reposed in him. 

 The Ghana Civil Aviation Authority had earlier confirmed that the aircraft, which was flying from Ho to Accra, lost radio contact at 1418 hours before the crash. 

GNA 

Edited by Kenneth Sackey