A helicopter, a Sikorsky SK76 with registration 5NBQG and operated by East Wind Aviation, crashed today, October 24, along the waterways in Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital, killing three out of the eight occupants.
Information reaching us at Greenbarge Reporters online newspaper said that the accident occurred at about 11.22am. The helicopter was en route from Port Harcourt Military Base (DNPM) to the Nuimantan oil rig.
According to spokesperson for the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Odutayo Oluseyi, a total of eight persons were on board.
The aircraft was said to have ditched into the waters near Bonny Finima in the Atlantic Ocean.
The authorities said that rescue efforts have been activated.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has owned up to hiring of the helicopter.
In a statement shared with the media, the company said: “On the 24th of October 2024, about 11:22am, we lost contact with the Helicopter – Register Number: 5NBQG, engaged by NNPC Limited, that took off from Port Harcourt NAF Base en route the FPSO.
“The helicopter was operated by East Winds Aviation.”
The NNPCL confirmed that there were eight persons on board (6 passengers and 2 crew members).
It said that appropriate authorities, including the Ministry of Aviation, which had since issued a press statement, have embarked on search and rescue missions.
NNPCL confirmed that so far, three bodies have been recovered.
“We shall continue to monitor the situation and provide regular updates as the events unfold.
“Our prayers are with the passengers, crew and their respective families at this very difficult time.
“We will continue to do everything possible to support the ongoing search and rescue operation.”
