NSIB updates on Port Harcourt helicopter crash rescue efforts
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau NSIB
Abdullateef Fowewe
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has given an update about its rescue mission on the Port Harcourt helicopter crash that occurred on Thursday, October 24.
The Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, operated by East Wind Aviation, lost contact with air traffic control and ditched into the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima shortly after taking off from Port Harcourt Military Base.
Initial reports indicate that all eight individuals on board are feared dead, with three bodies recovered so far.
Dailyeconomy reports that NSIB launched an investigation into the helicopter crash.
Giving an update on the incident in line with global best practices, NSIB in a statement on Saturday by its Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Bimbo Oladeji stated that no bodies or survivors were seen in its search and recovery that was carried out on Friday, October 25.
Oladeji said, “On the morning of October 25, 2024, at 07:30 AM local time, rescue teams resumed search operations. The search area was expanded as part of ongoing efforts to locate debris or signs of survivors.
A team of NSIB Aviation Safety Investigators and Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development representatives arrived at the Nuim Antan facility at 11:30 AM local time.
“Investigators conducted interviews with relevant staff to gather information pertinent to the ongoing investigation. The investigative team completed their on-site interviews and departed the FPSO by 3:24 PM.
At approximately 6:15 PM, search operations were suspended due to diminishing daylight.
“Unfortunately, no debris, survivors, or bodies were recovered during the day’s search. However, the divers successfully established a secured diving perimeter at an expected location of the wreck, which will guide the operations planned for tomorrow.”
The statement noted that the perimeter depth has been measured at 40-50 meters, stating that additional diving equipment and resources will be deployed to aid in the continuation of the efforts.
Speaking, the NSIB’s Director General Captain Alex Badeh, said, “We acknowledge the tireless efforts of the amalgamated rescue teams and supporting partners.
“We will continue these operations with every resource necessary and appreciate the cooperation and patience of all stakeholders involved.”
However, the NSIB reiterated its commitment to providing timely updates as the investigation advances and to conducting a thorough and transparent analysis of the incident.
“Further details will be released as they become available,” the statement stated.
