NSIB starts investigation into helicopter crash off the coast of Calabar

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

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

The NSIB emphasized that the purpose of the investigation is not to identify the guilty parties, 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 registration 5N-BQG operated by Eastwind Aviation,” the statement was read in part.

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

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

Captain Alex Badeh Jr., Director General of the 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 doing everything we can to determine the circumstances surrounding this accident. We urge the public to refrain from speculation at this sensitive time as our focus is on ensuring clarity and accountability through a thorough investigation.”

What you need to know about the helicopter crash

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

• It was carrying eight persons – six passengers and two crew members – during a routine flight from Port Harcourt Military Base (DNPM) to NUIMANTAN oil rig 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 engaged by the NNPC.
• At approximately 11:22 a.m. the aircraft landed 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 Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) signal, adding complexity to the search efforts.
• Authorities have since manually mapped the accident location 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 rescue boats being mobilized to locate survivors. Three bodies have been recovered so far.
• The NSIB confirmed that the helicopter had a fuel endurance of 2 hours and 15 minutes 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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