A helicopter carrying personnel for the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) tragically crashed on Thursday, plunging into the waters near Bonny Finima in the Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of Port Harcourt, Rivers State. This unfortunate incident has raised concerns regarding the safety of air travel in the region.
The aircraft involved in the accident was identified as a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, which was operated by East Winds Aviation. It had taken off from the Port Harcourt Military Base (DNPM) and was en route to the FPSO – NUIMS ANTAN oil rig at the time of the crash. Eyewitnesses reported that the helicopter went down under unclear circumstances, prompting an immediate response from emergency services.
NNPCL spokesperson Olufemi Soneye confirmed that the helicopter had been chartered by NNPC Limited and provided specific details about the crash, which occurred at approximately 11:22 a.m. in the waterways near Port Harcourt. The swift response from emergency services was crucial in initiating rescue operations aimed at locating and assisting the individuals on board.
According to reports from Odutayo Oluseyi, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, there were a total of eight individuals confirmed to be on board the helicopter at the time of the accident. The authorities have stated that rescue efforts were promptly activated, and they are working tirelessly to locate the personnel who were aboard the aircraft when it went down.
NNPCL has publicly expressed its concern regarding the situation. The company stated, “We shall continue to monitor the situation and provide regular updates as the events unfold. Our prayers are with the passengers, crew, and their respective families at this very difficult time.” They also assured the public that they would continue to support the ongoing search and rescue operation, emphasizing their commitment to the safety and well-being of all individuals involved.
As the investigation into the incident continues, authorities are focusing on gathering information about the circumstances surrounding the crash, and more updates will be released as they become available. The community is holding its breath, hoping for positive news regarding the passengers and crew who were on board the ill-fated helicopter.