Search, rescue operations underway as aviation ministry confirms helicopter crash in Port Harcourt

T The Federal Ministry of Aviation has confirmed a helicopter accident that occurred on October 24, 2024, at approximately 11:22 am along the waterways in Port Harcourt.

The incident was confirmed in a statement signed by Odutayo Oluseyi, Head, Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, on Thursday.

According to the statement, the Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, registered as 5NBQG and operated by East Wind Aviation, was on a routine flight from Port Harcourt Military Base (DNPM) to the NUIMANTAN oil rig when it tragically ditched into the waters near Bonny Finima in the Atlantic Ocean.

The aircraft had eight individuals on board at the time of the incident. In response to the situation, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has been promptly notified, and emergency response teams were activated without delay.

Search and rescue operations are currently in full swing, supported by the Nigerian Search and Rescue Unit, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the National Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), and various other relevant agencies. Nearby aerodromes have also been alerted to provide additional support.

While there was no Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) signal received, manual efforts are currently underway to pinpoint the accident’s location. All available resources, including military assistance and low-flying aircraft, have been deployed to aid in the search for any survivors. Sadly, three bodies have already been recovered from the scene.

The Honourable Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, SAN, is actively coordinating with all relevant agencies to ensure a unified response aimed at minimizing casualties from this unfortunate incident.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those on board, and we are committed to providing the necessary support during this difficult time,” the minister stated.