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8 die as helicopter plunges into Atlantic Ocean, NSIB launches probe
- NAAPE calls for optimal operating environment for professionals, mourns Capt. Dukas
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.
The helicopter, carrying eight individuals – six passengers and two crew members – went down into the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima, off the coast of Calabar, during a routine flight on Thursday, October 24, 2024, at approximately 11:22 AM local time.
The NSIB in a statement by its spokesperson, Mrs. Olawunmi Oladeji said the aircraft was en route from the Port Harcourt Military Base (DNPM) to the Anton Offshore Facility when it lost contact with air traffic controllers around 10:52 AM.
Operating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR), she said the helicopter did not transmit an Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) signal, prompting authorities to manually plot the accident’s location to expedite search and rescue efforts.
“Search and rescue operations were activated immediately, 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 so far. The search continues with support from neighbouring aerodromes, military units, and low-flying aircraft”, she added.
Director General of NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr. stated, “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.”
He urged the public to avoid speculation during this sensitive time, as the agency focuses on providing clarity and accountability through our investigation.
The NSIB, he reiterated is actively preparing to dispatch a go-team to the scene to gather evidence and conduct a comprehensive analysis, adding that a preliminary report will be issued in due course to provide updates on the investigation’s progress.
“We remain dedicated 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 expressed shock over the crash of a helicopter and the death of one of its members, Capt Yakubu Dukas in the accident.
The President of NAAPE, Abednego Galadima, said,” We received with great sadness, the news of the helicopter crash offshore on Thursday.
“More saddening is that the captain on board, Capt Yakubu Dukas, is a seasoned helicopter pilot with more than 20 years of flying experience. Until this unfortunate accident, was the Vice President of our great union.”
He stated that the group had 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.
The group called 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.
NAAPE equally called 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”, Galadima added.
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