The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced an investigation into the helicopter crash off the coast of Calabar involving a Sikorsky SK76c with registration 5N-BQG operated by Eastwind Aviation.

The disclosure was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by Mrs. Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Nigeria Bureau of Safety Investigation.

The NSIB emphasized that the purpose of the investigation is not to apportion blame, but to uncover the root causes of the accident and recommend safety measures to prevent future occurrences.

“The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced an investigation into the accident involving a Sikorsky SK76c helicopter with registration 5N-BQG operated by Eastwind Aviation.” statement read in part.

The statement further noted that the NSIB remains committed to promoting transparency and accountability through its independent accident investigation process, ultimately enhancing transport safety in Nigeria.

As part of the investigation, the NSIB is coordinating closely with other relevant agencies to collect evidence, interview witnesses and ensure that all contributing factors to the incident are thoroughly analysed.

Captain Alex Badeh Jr., the Director General of NSIB, expressed his condolences to the families of those affected, 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 urge the public to refrain from speculation at this sensitive time as we focus on providing clarity and accountability through a thorough investigation.”

What to know about the helicopter crash

The helicopter involved in the accident was a Sikorsky SK76c with registration number 5N-BQG, operated by Eastwind Aviation.

• It was carrying eight persons – six passengers and two crew members – during a routine flight from the Port Harcourt Military Base (DNPM) to the NUIMANTAN Oil Platform on Thursday, October 24, 2024.
• Nairametrics earlier reported that the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) confirmed that their personnel were on board as the helicopter was employed by the NNPC.
• At approximately 11:22, the aircraft went down in the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima, off the coast of Calabar. The helicopter was flying under visual flight rules (VFR) but did not transmit an ELT (Emergency Locator Transmitter) signal, complicating search efforts.
• Since then, authorities have manually mapped the crash site to guide rescue operations.

Emergency response teams supported by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Nigerian Armed Forces and neighboring airfields were immediately activated.

• The search continues with military units, low-flying aircraft and lifeboats mobilized to locate survivors. So far, three bodies have been recovered.
• The NSIB confirmed that the helicopter had 2 hours and 15 minutes of fuel endurance at the time of the incident.

Investigation and search efforts remain ongoing, with all agencies working together to ensure an effective response and provide updates as new information emerges.

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