Crashed helicopter had our personnel onboard — NNPCL

• The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Odutayo Oluseyi, said a total of eight persons were confirmed on board

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) says the helicopter that crashed in Port Harcourt, Rivers state, on Thursday was carrying personnel.

Olufemi Soneye, a NNPCL spokesman, confirmed in a statement that the helicopter operated by East Winds Aviation was contracted by NNPCL.

The statement partially reads, “On the 24th of October 2024, around 11:22 a.m., we lost contact with the Helicopter – Register Number: 5NBQG, engaged by NNPC Limited, that took off from Port Harcourt NAF Base en route to the FPSO – NUIMS ANTAN. East Winds Aviation operated the helicopter.

“There were 8 persons on board (6 passengers and 2 crew members). The appropriate authorities have been contacted, including the Ministry of Aviation, who have since issued a press statement.”

Within Nigeria reported a helicopter, a Sikorsky SK76 with registration 5NBQG, operated by East Wind Aviation, took off from Port Harcourt Military Base (DNPM) to the FPSO – NUIMS ANTAN oil rig and crashed at 11:22 am along the waterways in Port Harcourt.

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Odutayo Oluseyi, said a total of eight persons were confirmed on board.

The aircraft ditched into the waters near Bonny Finima in the Atlantic Ocean, the authorities said in a statement, adding that rescue efforts have been activated.

“Search and rescue missions are currently ongoing. So far, three (3) bodies have been recovered.

“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.

“We will continue to do everything possible to support the ongoing search and rescue operation,” the NNPCL added.