NSIB Launches Investigation into Helicopter Crash Near Bonny Finima
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has launched an urgent investigation into the crash of a Sikorsky SK76c helicopter, operated by Eastwind Aviation, which plunged into the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima, off the coast of Calabar.
The tragic incident occurred on Thursday, 24 October 2024, at approximately 11:22 AM local time, during a routine flight.
The helicopter, with registration number 5N-BQG, was carrying eight people – six passengers and two crew members – and was en route from Port Harcourt Military Base (DNPM) to the Anton Offshore Facility when it lost contact with air traffic control at around 10:52 AM.
The aircraft, flying under Visual Flight Rules (VFR), failed to transmit an Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) signal, which compelled authorities to manually plot the accident’s location to expedite search and rescue operations.
Search and rescue teams were immediately mobilised, with the NSIB working in close collaboration with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Nigerian Armed Forces, and other key agencies.
Three bodies have been recovered so far, as emergency response teams continue to search for the remaining individuals.
The Director General of the NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., expressed the bureau’s deep condolences, stating: “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.”
To support these efforts, the NSIB is preparing to send a dedicated team of investigators to the crash site, where they will gather vital evidence and conduct a thorough analysis of the events leading to the crash.
A preliminary report will be issued in due course to provide updates on the progress of the investigation.
The NSIB has reassured the public of its dedication to transparency and accountability, emphasising its mission to enhance transportation safety in Nigeria through rigorous, independent investigations.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau is a multimodal transport agency responsible for promoting transport safety by conducting objective, thorough, and accurate investigations into transport accidents in Nigeria.
Its investigations aim to identify probable causes and advocate for safety improvements.
For more information, the NSIB can be reached through its official email at [email protected], or via its social media platforms at NSIB_Nigeria. The Bureau’s emergency line is also available at +234-807-709-0909.
