BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has initiated an inquiry into the unfortunate incident involving a Sikorsky SK76c helicopter, registered as 5N-BQG, operated by Eastwind Aviation.
This was disclosed by Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance of the bureau.
She recalled that on Thursday, October 24, 2024, at approximately 11:22 AM local time, the helicopter, which was carrying eight individuals—six passengers and two crew members—crashed into the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima, off the coast of Calabar, during a routine flight.
She also noted that the aircraft was en route from the Port Harcourt Military Base (DNPM) to the Anton Offshore Facility when it lost contact with air traffic control around 10:52 AM.
According to her, the chopper, operating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR), did not transmit an Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) signal, leading authorities to manually plot the accident’s location to expedite search and rescue efforts.
Her statement added that Search and rescue operations were swiftly activated, with the NSIB collaborating closely with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Nigerian Armed Forces, and other relevant agencies.
Emergency response teams are actively working to locate survivors, with three bodies recovered thus far.
The search continues with the assistance of neighboring aerodromes, military units, and low-flying aircraft.
She quoted Captain Alex Badeh Jr., Director General of the NSIB, as saying; “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.
“We urge the public to refrain from speculation during this sensitive time, as our focus is on providing clarity and accountability through our investigation.”
“The NSIB is preparing to dispatch a go-team to the site to gather evidence and conduct a thorough analysis. A preliminary report will be released in due course to update the public on the investigation’s progress.
“We remain dedicated in our commitment to promoting transparency and accountability through our independent accident investigation process, ultimately enhancing transportation safety in Nigeria.
Meanwhile, the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), has reacted to the crash, saying it received the unfortunate news with great shock.
“More saddening is that the captain on board, Capt Yakubu Dukas, is a seasoned helicopter pilot with more than 20 years flying experience and until this unfortunate accident, was the Vice President of our great union.
“We have always maintained that the operating conditions in the aviation industry must always be optimal for all professionals for the safety of all knowing that there is no parking space up there.
“We call on the government and all stakeholders, to always ensure that in all their operations, they target zero for accidents because of the catastrophic nature of air crashes.
“We also call on all relevant agencies to ensure no stone is left unturned in unearthing the immediate and remote causes of this tragic occurrence and all the measures required to be put in place to forestall any further occurrence. Our prayers are with all families whose beloved ones were on board”, the association said in a statement.
