NSIB Locates Wreckage of Eastwind Aviation Helicopter in Atlantic Ocean, Begins Recovery Efforts

One week after the crash of ditched Sikorsky SK76 helicopter with registration 5N BQG, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), has announced that the search and recovery team has located the wreckage of the ill-fated helicopter.

The helicopter, operated by Eastwind Aviation, carried eight individuals onboard and ditched in the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima on October 24, 2024 with the loss of all lives onboard.

A statement by the Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, said the wreckage was identified during Wednesday night’s recovery dives at approximately 0.775 nautical miles from the FPSO Adoon.

It was located at a depth of 42 metres, with coordinates registered at Latitude 04° 13.634′ N and Longitude 008° 19.442′ E.

NSIB disclosed that efforts were underway for the recovery of the helicopter’s wreckage. But the tailboom of the helicopter has already been successfully retrieved and lifted from the water on Thursday.

The 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. 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,” the statement said.

Chinedu Eze

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