A helicopter operated by East Wind Aviation crashed into the waters near Bonny Finima in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on October 24, 2024, around 11:22 am. The Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, with registration 5NBQG, was on a scheduled flight from Port Harcourt Military Base (DNPM) to the NUIMANTAN oil rig when the incident occurred.
The Federal Ministry of Aviation has confirmed that there were eight people on board at the time of the crash. The aircraft was reported to have “ditched” into the water, and emergency response teams were immediately activated. Search and rescue operations are currently underway, with coordinated efforts from the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), the Nigerian Search and Rescue Unit, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and other relevant agencies.
Despite the lack of an Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) signal, authorities are using manual methods to plot the helicopter’s location. Resources, including military personnel and low-flying aircraft, have been deployed to aid in locating any survivors. So far, three bodies have been recovered from the crash site.
The Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, stated that all available resources are being utilized to ensure a coordinated search and rescue effort. Neighbouring aerodromes have also been alerted to assist as necessary. The Minister expressed deep concern over the incident and assured the public that every effort is being made to minimize casualties and locate any survivors.
“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,” said Odutayo Oluseyi, Head of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, in an official statement.
The cause of the crash is still unknown, and investigations are ongoing. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
