The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) reported recent progress in the recovery operation and investigation following the ditching of a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, registration 5N BQG, operated by Eastwind Aviation. The helicopter, with eight persons aboard, went down near Bonny Finima on October 24, 2024. Recovery teams, including vessels and specialised personnel, have been coordinating around the clock to retrieve bodies and gather evidence.
On October 26, recovery updates began early, with search and rescue vessels MV VOSINE, Ebok HD Steadfast, MV Pioneer and Jacksparrow heading to the Antan field to assist in deep-sea retrievals. Additional equipment and personnel were deployed to enhance diving capabilities and precision operations. By 4:00 PM, a body was retrieved by the fast rescue craft (FRC) and with Cameroonian Navy assistance, it was transported safely. Efforts continued, with field operations confirming the fourth victim’s identity through visual evidence.
NSIB’s director-general, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., lauded the collaboration of various agencies: “We are grateful for the support of national and international partners. Our commitment remains with the families, as we work to uncover the incident’s cause and bring closure.”
This coordinated approach is supported by government and private partners, emphasising the importance of transparency and accountability. The NSIB requested patience and understanding from the public, discouraging speculation and assuring that accurate information would be shared as recovery efforts proceed.
As the NSIB spearheads this critical investigation, the bureau underscores its role in advancing transportation safety in Nigeria. The recovery process, though challenging, aims to yield comprehensive findings that will enhance future operational protocols and emergency response measures.
