Search and rescue operations are underway after the crash of a Sikorsky SK76 with eight people on board…
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has confirmed a tragic helicopter crash involving a Sikorsky SK76 operated by East Wind Aviation.
The incident occurred at approximately 11:22 AM on Thursday, October 24, 2024, over the waterways near Bonny Finima in the Atlantic Ocean. The helicopter was en route from Port Harcourt Military Base to the NUIMANTAN oil rig when it ditched into the water with eight people on board.
In a statement released via his X account, Keyamo expressed his deep concern regarding the accident. He stated, “The aircraft, with eight persons on board, ditched into the waters near Bonny Finima in the Atlantic Ocean.” Emergency response teams were immediately activated, and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has been notified.
Ongoing search and rescue operations are being conducted with support from various agencies, including the Nigerian Search and Rescue Unit and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority.
Keyamo noted that while no Emergency Locator Transmitter signal was received, manual efforts to locate the crash site are underway.
All available resources have been mobilized, including military assistance and low-flying aircraft. To date, three bodies have been recovered.
Keyamo extended his condolences to the families affected by this incident, stating, “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.”
