The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) announced a significant breakthrough in its search and recovery mission for the Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, registration 5N BQG, which went down in the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima on October 24, 2024.
The helicopter, operated by Eastwind Aviation, carried eight individuals onboard at the time of the incident.
In a statement from Mrs. Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance at NSIB, the wreckage was confirmed discovered during last night’s recovery dives approximately 0.775 nautical miles from the Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel Adoon.
The helicopter wreckage rests at a depth of 42 meters, precisely located at Latitude 04° 13.634′ N and Longitude 008° 19.442′ E.
The recovery team composed of dedicated allied partners and experts successfully retrieved the helicopter’s tail boom from the water earlier today. According to NSIB, efforts to recover the remaining wreckage are actively in progress.
Captain Alex Badeh Jr., Director General of NSIB, praised the relentless work of the search and recovery team. “Locating the wreckage is a critical milestone in our efforts to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragic accident. The dedication and cooperation shown by all involved parties have been exceptional, and we are determined to conduct a thorough investigation to provide clarity and closure to the families of those affected,” Badeh stated.
The NSIB emphasised its commitment to a meticulous investigative process in line with its mandate to advance transportation safety in Nigeria. By collaborating closely with national and international partners, NSIB aims to ensure a comprehensive investigation into the incident.
Further updates on the progress of the recovery efforts will be released as they develop, assuring the public and affected families that the NSIB is dedicated to uncovering the details of this unfortunate event and enhancing safety measures for future air travel in Nigeria
