Tragic Helicopter Crash in Gulf of Guinea: NSIB Initiates Investigation

 October 24, 2024 - Abuja, Nigeria

A Sikorsky S-76C+ helicopter, operated by East Wind Aviation and contracted by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), tragically crashed into the sea near the Nuim Atan Offshore Installation in the Gulf of Guinea on October 24, 2024.

The aircraft, with registration number 5N-BQG, was En route from Port Harcourt Military Base (DNPM) to the offshore facility when it lost contact with air traffic controllers around 10:52 AM, shortly before crashing at 11:22 AM local time.

The helicopter was carrying eight people, including six passengers and two crew members. Despite immediate search and rescue efforts, all eight occupants are presumed dead, with five bodies recovered as of the latest reports. The NSIB is actively working to recover the remaining bodies and assess the site.

Captain Alex Badeh Jr., Director General of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), expressed condolences to the affected families and emphasized the agency’s commitment to conducting a thorough investigation. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families affected by this tragic incident. We are fully committed to uncovering the circumstances surrounding this accident,” he stated, urging the public to refrain from speculation while the investigation proceeds.

The NSIB, in cooperation with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and the Nigerian Armed Forces, is leading the investigative efforts. No emergency locator transmitter (ELT) signal was detected from the helicopter, a factor which has prompted authorities to employ manual location plotting to accelerate recovery operations.

A preliminary report will be released once initial analysis and evidence collection are complete, with NSIB assuring full transparency and dedication to accountability. Further updates will follow as search efforts and investigative work continue.

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