The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has announced the successful recovery of the tail boom from the Sikorsky SK76 helicopter that crashed in the Atlantic Ocean near Port Harcourt, Rivers.
The helicopter, registered as 5N BQG and operated by Eastwind Aviation, went down on October 24 while carrying eight individuals.
The NSIB released this information in a statement signed by Mrs. Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, on Thursday night. The tail boom was located during recovery dives approximately 0.775 nautical miles from the FPSO Adoon, at a depth of 42 meters, with coordinates of Latitude 04° 13.634′ N and Longitude 008° 19.442′ E.
Capt. Alex Badeh, the Director-General of NSIB, praised the teamwork and collaboration among all parties involved in the search and recovery efforts. He noted, “Locating the wreckage is a critical milestone in understanding the circumstances surrounding this tragic accident. We are determined to conduct a thorough investigation to provide clarity and closure to the families of those affected.”
As of now, five of the eight people on board have been recovered. The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, confirmed this recovery via his social media account on Thursday evening.
According to a statement from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd. (NNPCL), the helicopter had taken off from the Port Harcourt NAF Base en route to the FPSO – NUIMS ANTAN. It was transporting personnel when it tragically lost contact. The spokesperson for NNPCL explained, “The helicopter, a Sikorsky SK76 operated by East Wind Aviation, was en route from the Port Harcourt Military Base to the NUIMANTAN oil rig when it crashed into the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima. The flight had eight people on board — six passengers and two crew members — when contact was lost at 11:22 am.”
Soneye, the NNPCL spokesperson, assured that the company would continue to support the ongoing search and rescue efforts. He stated, “We shall continue to monitor the situation and provide regular updates as events unfold. Our prayers are with the passengers, crew, and their families during this very difficult time. We will do everything possible to support the ongoing search and rescue operation.”
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