The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and the House of Representatives Committee on Aviation and Aerospace Technology have committed to a transparent and thorough investigation into the recent Sikorsky SK76 helicopter crash off the coast of Bonny Finima, Rivers State. The helicopter, operated by Eastwind Aviation, was transporting oil workers when it crashed on October 24, 2024, shortly after departing from Port Harcourt. To date, five of the eight individuals on board have been recovered.
During a site visit, NSIB Director General Captain Alex Badeh Jr. and Committee Chairman Hon. Abiodun Akinlade received updates from the multidisciplinary search and recovery team. They emphasized the government’s dedication to uncovering the facts surrounding the incident and enhancing aviation safety measures. Captain Badeh stated, “We are committed to uncovering the facts of this tragic incident. Our team is deploying the highest standards to ensure we bring clarity to the families affected, while enhancing safety measures that will benefit all Nigerians.”
Hon. Akinlade expressed condolences to the bereaved families and highlighted the National Assembly’s role in ensuring that findings from the investigation contribute to improved aviation safety policies. He remarked, “The safety of our citizens and the integrity of our transport system are priorities for the National Assembly. We will ensure that insights and lessons from this investigation contribute to Nigeria’s aviation safety policies and broader transport safety initiatives.”
The NSIB, with support from local and international partners, continues its search and recovery mission to locate the wreckage and determine the cause of the crash. The Bureau has pledged to maintain transparency throughout the investigative process, aiming to provide closure to the affected families and implement actionable recommendations to prevent future incidents.
