Super Eagles’ flight diversion ordered by Libya’s ‘highest authority’ -Pilot confirms
The Tunisian pilot who flew the Super Eagles of Nigeria to Libya has revealed that he was ordered by the Libyan authorities to divert the plane from Benghazi, the scheduled destination, to Al-Abraq airport.
On Sunday, October 13, the Super Eagles were en route to Benghazi for the second leg of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Libya when the flight was diverted mid-air.
In a video interview shared on X by sports journalist Pooja Media, the pilot clarified that the decision to change course was not made by him, but rather mandated by Libyan authorities.
“Our flight plan was approved for Benghazi, Benina,” the pilot stated, emphasizing that they had all necessary permissions from the Libyan Civil Aviation Authority.
“However, just as we began our descent, we were ordered to divert to Al-Abraq, which is almost 150 miles away—about 300 kilometers to the east. This airport isn’t even listed as an alternate in our plan, which raises safety concerns.”
Highlighting the potential risks of such a diversion, the pilot expressed concern over fuel calculations that were specifically tailored for the original destination.
“In aviation, we meticulously calculate fuel for our designated landing spot, and such unexpected changes can jeopardize safety,” he explained.
Despite his persistent inquiries about landing in Benghazi, he was informed that the directive came from a higher authority, compelling them to divert.
Refuting claims from various media outlets that he made the decision to divert the flight, he reiterated, “Everything is documented in aviation. I questioned them multiple times—at least eight—and they insisted that I had to divert to Al-Abraq, citing orders from the highest authority.”
The pilot confirmed that all communications regarding the flight’s permissions and instructions are recorded and can be made available as evidence if required.
“We were indeed headed for Benghazi, and I have proof of the approval. But at the last minute, the decision changed,” he noted.
Discussing the challenges of landing at Al-Abraq, he described it as a poorly equipped airport, lacking essential navigation aids.
“There is no Instrument Landing System, no VHF Omnidirectional Range, and we had to rely on visual landing techniques—especially challenging at night with marginal weather,” he said, admitting that the airport’s inadequate facilities allowed for “no second chances” in case of an error.
In light of the situation, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has announced that the Super Eagles will not participate in the upcoming qualifier against Libya and have since returned back to Nigeria after spending over 16 hours at the Al-Abraq airport.
