A helicopter hovering around a rig at the excravos
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced an investigation into the accident involving a Sikorsky SK76c helicopter with registration 5N-BQG, operated by Eastwind Aviation.
According to a media statement from NSIB, “the helicopter, carrying eight individual souls onboard- six passengers and two crew members – all went down into the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima, off the coast of Calabar, during a routine flight on Thursday, 24th October 2024, at approximately 11:22 AM local time.
The aircraft the statement said, was en route from the Port Harcourt Military Base (DNPM) to the Anton Offshore Facility when it lost contact with air traffic controllers around 10:52 AM. Operating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR), the helicopter did not transmit an Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) signal.
The situation NSIB said prompted authorities to manually plot the accident’s location to expedite search and rescue efforts.
Hence, Search and rescue operations were activated immediately, with the NSIB collaborating closely with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Nigerian Armed Forces and other relevant agencies. Emergency response teams are actively working to locate survivors, with three bodies recovered so far. The search continues with support from neighbouring aerodromes, military units, and low-flying aircraft.
Captain Alex Badeh Jr., Director General of the NSIB, stated, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families affected by this tragic incident. We are fully committed to uncovering the circumstances surrounding this accident. We will work diligently to ensure that all necessary information is collected. The public must avoid speculation during this sensitive time, as our focus is on providing clarity and accountability through our investigation.”
The NSIB is preparing to dispatch a go-team to the scene to gather evidence and conduct a comprehensive analysis. A preliminary report will be issued in due course to provide updates on the investigation’s progress.
NSIB in the statement reiterated that, ”we remain dedicated to promoting transparency and accountability through our independent accident investigation process, ultimately enhancing transportation safety in Nigeria”.
Picture: Courtesy of the website of East Wing Aviation Logistics Services Limited
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