Nigeria, in collaboration with the United States and France, has initiated a detailed investigation into the October 24, 2024, crash of a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter operated by East Wind Aviation. The helicopter, carrying six passengers and two crew members, went down off the coast of Bonny Finima in the Atlantic Ocean, leading to a massive search and recovery operation.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced that five bodies have been recovered, while efforts continue to locate three missing individuals. At a press conference, Keyamo highlighted the participation of international aviation bodies in the investigation. The United States, as the state of manufacture, appointed an investigator from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to examine the helicopter, while France, the state of engine design, has provided a technical adviser from Safran, the engine manufacturer.
Keyamo noted that all necessary components, including the helicopter’s black box, have been retrieved and transported to Abuja for analysis. He emphasized that the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) will examine factors such as crew training, maintenance records, and environmental conditions to identify any contributing causes of the crash. Preliminary findings are expected to be shared on the NSIB’s website within 30 days, while the final report could take a year or more.
The NSIB’s Family Assistance Programme will offer emotional and psychological support to the victims’ families, in line with international aviation safety protocols. Keyamo reassured the public that the ministry is committed to uncovering the cause of the crash and implementing recommendations to prevent future incidents.
In a final note, Keyamo praised the cooperation among various aviation agencies, both domestic and international, and reiterated the government’s dedication to aviation safety.
