The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau(NSIB) said that it has intensified search for the missing bodies and debris of the ill- fated crash of a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter operated by Eastwind Aviation on Thursday.
three days after it crashed
A statement signed by the.Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance, NSIB, Mrs Bimbo Oladeji informed that the update by the accidents and incidents investigation body is in line with global best practices.
” We are providing an update on the ongoing search and recovery efforts following the October 24, 2024, ditching incident involving a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter operated by Eastwind Aviation.
“The incident occurred near Bonny Finima, off the coast of Port Harcourt.
” Rescue operations commenced shortly after, with teams continuing to work extensively to locate the helicopter and any signs of survivors.”
“On the morning of October 25, 2024, at 07:30 AM local time, rescue teams resumed search operations. The search area was expanded as part of ongoing efforts to locate debris or signs of survivors.
” A team of NSIB Aviation Safety Investigators and Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development representatives arrived at the Nuim Antan facility at 11:30 AM local time,” the statement said.
Investigators, the NSIB said has conducted interviews with relevant staff to gather information pertinent to the ongoing investigation.
The investigative team, the agency said completed their on-site interviews and departed the FPSO by 3:24 PM.
It added that at approximately 6:15 PM, search operations were suspended due to diminishing daylight.
The statement further said that unfortunately, no debris, survivors, or bodies were recovered during the day’s search.
However, the divers successfully established a secured diving perimeter at an expected location of the wreck, which will guide the operations planned for tomorrow.
The perimeter depth, the NSIB has been measured at 40-50 meters, and additional diving equipment and resources will be deployed to aid in the continuation of these efforts.
Speaking, the Director General of the NSIB, stated, Capt. Alex Badeh Jr., said, “We acknowledge the tireless efforts of the amalgamated rescue teams and supporting partners. We will continue these operations with every resource necessary and appreciate the cooperation and patience of all stakeholders involved.”
NSIB, he said remains committed to providing timely updates as the investigation advances and to conducting a thorough and transparent analysis of the incident. Further details will be released as they become available.
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