A tragic accident involving a helicopter, a Sikorsky SK76 with registration number 5NBQG occurred on Thursday, 24 October 2024.
Gatekeepers News reports that the helicopter which had eight oil workers that are yet to be rescued on board was operated by East Wind Aviation and was en route from Port Harcourt Military Base (DNPM) to the NUIMANTAN oil rig when it crashed into the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima.
Federal Ministry of Aviation in a statement released by by its Head of Press and Public Relations, Odutayo Oluseyi confirmed the incident.
According to the ministry which gave details surrounding the incident; the helicopter crashed at approximately 11:22 am.
According to initial reports, the aircraft ditched into the waters, prompting immediate action from the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, which has been alerted along with emergency response teams.
An extensive search and rescue operation is currently underway, involving Nigerian Search and Rescue Unit, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), National Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), and other relevant agencies. Nearby aerodromes have also been notified to offer additional support.
The ministry notes that despite ongoing search efforts, no Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) signal has been received, complicating the rescue operations.
It added that search teams are actively working to locate the crash site manually, deploying all available resources, including military personnel and low-flying aircraft. As of now, three bodies have been recovered from the waters, amplifying fears for the remaining passengers’ safety.
The statement added, “Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo is closely coordinating with all involved agencies to ensure a swift and effective response to this tragic event. In the wake of this accident, the Ministry has pledged to provide updates as new information becomes available.l
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those on board this ill-fated flight during this incredibly challenging time. The Ministry is committed to offering all necessary support to assist those affected by this devastating incident.”
