The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and the House of Representatives Committee on Aviation and Aerospace Technology have pledged a comprehensive and transparent inquiry into the recent helicopter crash involving a Sikorsky SK76 (registration 5N BQG).
The incident, which occurred on October 24, 2024, off the coast of Bonny Finima, resulted in the tragic loss of life among oil workers traveling from Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
As of now, five bodies have been recovered from the eight individuals on board the helicopter, operated by Eastwind Aviation. Following the accident, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., the Director General of NSIB, along with Chairman of the House Committee Abiodun Akinlade, visited the crash site to monitor recovery operations and the ongoing investigation.
In a statement, the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance at NSIB Bimbo Oladeji, emphasized the commitment to uncover the facts surrounding this incident.
Captain Badeh highlighted the importance of maintaining high standards throughout the investigation, stating, “We are committed to uncovering the facts of this tragic incident. Our team is deploying the highest standards to ensure we bring clarity to the families affected, while enhancing safety measures that will benefit all Nigerians.”
Akinlade echoed these sentiments, reinforcing the government’s dedication to the safety of citizens reliant on transportation. He expressed condolences to the families affected and stressed that the insights gained from this investigation would play a crucial role in shaping aviation safety policies and broader transport safety reforms in Nigeria.
The NSIB, with support from local and international partners, is conducting a multidisciplinary search and recovery mission to locate the wreckage and investigate environmental factors, safety protocols, and technical issues that may have contributed to the crash.
Both officials reaffirmed that the process would be guided by principles of transparency and accountability, aiming to provide meaningful recommendations for future safety improvements.
