NSIB Launches Investigation Into Fatal Helicopter Crash Off Calabar Coast

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has officially commenced an in-depth investigation into the crash that occurred on Thursday involving a Sikorsky SK76c helicopter operated by Eastwind Aviation.

The aircraft, carrying six passengers and two crew members, tragically went down into the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima, off the coast of Calabar.

Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji, the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance at NSIB, announced that the bureau is preparing to dispatch a go-team to the crash site to gather evidence and perform a comprehensive analysis of the incident.

The investigation aims to uncover the sequence of events leading to the accident and to identify any potential safety improvements.

The helicopter was on a routine flight from the Port Harcourt Military Base (DNPM) to the Anton Offshore facility. It reportedly lost contact with air traffic controllers at approximately 10:52 AM, with the crash occurring about 30 minutes later at 11:22 AM.

The statement read, “Operating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR), the helicopter did not transmit an Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) signal, prompting authorities to manually plot the accident’s location to expedite search and rescue efforts.

“Search and rescue operations were activated immediately, with the NSIB collaborating closely with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Nigerian Armed Forces and other relevant agencies.

“Emergency response teams are actively working to locate survivors, with three bodies recovered so far. The search continues with support from neighbouring aerodromes, military units, and low-flying aircraft.”

The Director General of the NSIB, Capt. Alex Badeh Jr. stated that the Bureau’s thoughts and prayers are with the families affected by the tragic incident.

He said, “We are fully committed to uncovering the circumstances surrounding this accident. We will work diligently to ensure that all necessary information is collected. The public must avoid speculation during this sensitive time, as our focus is on providing clarity and accountability through our investigation.”

“The NSIB is actively preparing to dispatch a go-team to the scene to gather evidence and conduct a comprehensive analysis.

“A preliminary report will be issued in due course to provide updates on the investigation’s progress.

“We remain dedicated to promoting transparency and accountability through our independent accident investigation process, ultimately enhancing transportation safety in Nigeria.”

NSIB