In a tragic incident that occurred on Thursday morning, a helicopter operated by East Winds Aviation, carrying personnel from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), crashed into the waterways near Bonny Finima, Port Harcourt.
The Sikorsky SK76 aircraft was en route to the FPSO NUIMS ANTAN oil rig when it went down shortly after takeoff from the Port Harcourt Military Base.
A total of eight individuals were confirmed to be on board at the time of the crash. The identities of the passengers have not yet been disclosed, but the NNPCL is working to communicate with their families and provide support during this distressing time.
Olufemi Soneye, spokesperson for NNPCL, expressed deep concern for those involved, stating, “Our prayers are with the passengers, crew, and their respective families at this very difficult time.”
Rescue operations were initiated promptly following the incident, with local authorities mobilizing search teams to the crash site.
The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development reported that the helicopter ditched into the Atlantic Ocean at approximately 11:22 a.m., triggering immediate response efforts.
“We shall continue to monitor the situation and provide regular updates as the events unfold,” Soneye added. “We assure that we will continue doing everything possible to support the ongoing search and rescue operation.”
As the rescue mission progresses, there are hopes of finding survivors. The Nigerian Navy and other maritime agencies have joined forces to search the crash area, employing boats and aircraft in their efforts.
The NNPCL has committed to transparency in the unfolding situation, vowing to keep the public informed of any developments regarding the victims and the recovery operations.
More information regarding the passengers and crew is anticipated as authorities continue their search and investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.