Three bodies recovered as Helicopter crashes into Atlantic ocean off P’Harcou Tragedy struck in Port Harcourt today, October 24, 2024, as a helicopter crashed into the Atlantic Ocean and three bodies recovered out of eight crew on board.
The Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, operated by East Wind Aviation, was on its way from Port Harcourt Military Base to the NUIMANTAN oil rig when it ditched into the waters near Bonny Finima at approximately 11:22 am.
According to a statement released and signed by Odutayo Oluseyi, Head, Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, there were eight persons on board. Unfortunately, three bodies have been recovered so far.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has been notified, and emergency response teams are working tirelessly to locate and rescue any survivors.
The search and rescue operations are being supported by the Nigerian Search and Rescue Unit, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and other relevant agencies.
“The Honourable Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, is actively working with all relevant agencies to ensure a coordinated response and to minimize casualties from this unfortunate incident,” the statement reads.
Neighbouring aerodromes have also been alerted for support. Despite no Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) signal being received, manual efforts are underway to plot the location of the accident.
“While no Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) signal was received, manual efforts to plot the location of the accident are underway, and all available resources, including the military and low-flying aircraft, have been deployed to assist in locating and rescuing any survivor(s). So far, three bodies have been recovered.”
The helicopter, with registration number 5NBQG, was reported to have crashed into the waters, sparking a swift response from emergency services.
The cause of the crash is yet to be determined.
The Ministry has assured that further information will be provided as details emerge.