The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has announced that the team leading the search and recovery efforts has located the wreckage of the Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, registration 5N BQG, which crashed into the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima on October 24, 2024.
The helicopter, operated by Eastwind Aviation, was carrying eight individuals when it crashed.
Director of public affairs and family assistance at NSIB, Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji stated that the wreckage was identified during a recovery dive conducted last night, approximately 0.775 nautical miles from the FPSO Adoon, at a depth of 42 metres. The location was confirmed at coordinates Latitude 04° 13.634′ N and Longitude 008° 19.442′ E. The tail boom has already been retrieved and lifted from the water today, with further recovery efforts ongoing.
NSIB director-general, Capt. Alex Badeh Jr. commended the joint team, noting, “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 committed to conducting a thorough investigation to provide clarity and closure to the families of those affected.”
The NSIB promised to provide additional updates as the recovery efforts progress. It assured Nigerians that it remains committed to working with national and international partners to fulfill its mandate of enhancing transportation safety in Nigeria.
