A devastating helicopter crash occurred today, October 24, 2024, off the coast of Port Harcourt, resulting in the loss of multiple lives.
The Sikorsky S-76 helicopter, operated by East Wind Aviation and registered as 5N-BQG, was on a routine flight from the Port Harcourt Military Base to the NUIMANTAN oil rig when it ditched into the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima .
Crash Details:
Time of Incident: 10:22 Zulu time (1022Z)
Aircraft Information: Sikorsky S-76, Registration 5N-BQG, Operated by East Wind Aviation
Passengers On Board: 8
Last Point of Contact: Bonny Finima, 5 minutes to destination.
Type of Operation:: Visual Flight Rules (VFR)
Rescue Efforts:
The Search and Rescue (SAR) department of Nigerian Airspace Management Agency ( NAMA) headed by Director of Air traffic services, Mr Tayo John , swiftly responded to the distress call, mobilizing personnel and facilities to locate the ditched helicopter and persons in distress.
The Portharcourt Rescue Sub Centre is coordinating search and rescue activities, providing necessary communication and medical assistance .
Response from Authorities:
Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has expressed condolences to the families of the victims and assured the public that all relevant agencies are working together to assist with rescue efforts .
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) are among the agencies involved in the rescue mission.
Current Status:
Three bodies have been recovered from the sea, while search operations continue for the remaining passengers. Additional resources, including military and low-flying aircraft, have been deployed to aid in locating any survivors .
This tragic incident is a sobering reminder of the risks associated with aviation. Our thoughts are with the families of those affected.
