According to a spokesperson from the ministry of aviation and aerospace development, a helicopter crash in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers state, has resulted in the deaths of three individuals.
The statement mentioned that the aircraft, carrying eight individuals, crashed into the waters near Bonny Finima in the Atlantic Ocean.
“The Federal Ministry of Aviation has received the distressing report of a helicopter accident that occurred today, 24th October 2024, at about 11:22 am along the waterways in Port Harcourt,” the statement reads.
“The helicopter, a Sikorsky SK76 with registration 5NBQG and operated by East Wind Aviation, was en-route from Port Harcourt Military Base (DNPM) to the NUIMANTAN oil rig.
“The aircraft, with eight persons on board, ditched into the waters near Bonny Finima in the Atlantic Ocean.
“The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has been notified and emergency response teams were immediately activated, and search and rescue operations are ongoing with the support of the Nigerian Search and Rescue Unit, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the National Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), and other relevant agencies. Neighbouring aerodromes have also been notified for support.”
The spokesperson said that, while no Emergency Locator Transmitter signal was received, manual efforts are underway to locate the accident site, deploying all resources, including military and low-flying aircraft.
The statement said that Festus Keyamo, the minister of aviation and aerospace development, is collaborating with relevant agencies to coordinate responses and minimize casualties from the 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 statement added.
