The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has announced that the allied team and partners leading the charge for the search and recovery efforts of the ditched Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, registration 5N BQG, have located its wreckage of the ill-fated chopper.
The helicopter, operated by Eastwind Aviation, had eight individuals onboard and ditched into the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima on October 24, 2024.
Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance at NSIB, Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, in a statement on Thursday, said the wreckage was identified during Wednesday night’s recovery dives, approximately 0.775 nautical miles from the FPSO Adoon. It was located at a depth of 42 meters, with coordinates registered at Latitude 04° 13.634′ N and Longitude 008° 19.442′ E.
She added that while efforts are currently underway for the recovery of the helicopter’s wreckage affirmed that the tail boom of the helicopter has already been successfully retrieved and lifted from the water on Thursday.
Director General of NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., commended the allied team and partners leading the search and recovery efforts.
“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.”
Further recovery efforts for the wreckage are underway, and additional updates will be provided as they become available.
Oladeji said that NSIB remains committed to working closely with national and international partners to carry out the recovery and investigative process in line with its mandate to enhance transportation safety in Nigeria.
