Tail boom of crashed Port Harcourt helicopter recovered — NSIB

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has announced the successful recovery of the tail boom of the ill-fated Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, registration 5N BQG, which ditched in the Atlantic Ocean, Port Harcourt, Rivers.

The NSIB disclosed this in a statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji on Thursday night.

It said the helicopter, operated by Eastwind Aviation, had eight individuals on board when it crashed near Bonny Finima, Port Harcourt on October 24.

According to NSIB’s statement, the tail boom was identified during recovery dives approximately 0.775 nautical miles from the FPSO Adoon, at a depth of 42 meters, with coordinates Latitude 04° 13.634′ N and Longitude 008° 19.442′ E.

NSIB’s Director-General, Capt. Alex Badeh, lauded the teamwork and cooperation among parties involved in the search and recovery efforts.

“Locating the wreckage is a critical milestone in understanding the circumstances surrounding this tragic accident.

“We are determined to conduct a thorough investigation to provide clarity and closure to the families of those affected.”

Supreme News reports that five bodies out of the eight individuals on board have been recovered.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, SAN, confirmed the recovery via his X handle on Thursday evening.