NSIB Pauses Helicopter Search Operations As Light Conditions Deteriorate

NSIB Pauses Helicopter Search Operations As Light Conditions Deteriorate
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has announced a temporary suspension of search operations for the Eastwind Aviation Sikorsky SK76 helicopter that crashed off the coast of Port Harcourt. The decision to pause the search was made due to diminishing daylight, which posed safety concerns for continued efforts.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In a statement issued by NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji, the search operations were halted at 6:15 PM yesterday. Despite extensive efforts throughout the day, no debris, survivors, or bodies were located.

The Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, operated by Eastwind Aviation, crashed two days ago while en route to an offshore facility. The NSIB’s update stated, “In line with global best practices, we are providing an update on the ongoing search and recovery efforts following the October 24, 2024, ditching incident involving a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter operated by Eastwind Aviation near Bonny Finima, off the coast of Port Harcourt. Rescue operations began shortly after the incident, with teams working diligently to locate the helicopter and any potential survivors.

Search operations resumed on October 25 at 07:30 AM local time, with an expanded search area. A team of NSIB Aviation Safety Investigators and representatives from the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development arrived at the Nuim Antan facility at 11:30 AM, conducting interviews with relevant staff to gather information for the ongoing investigation. The investigative team completed their on-site interviews and departed the FPSO by 3:24 PM.

Search efforts were suspended at approximately 6:15 PM due to dwindling daylight. Unfortunately, no debris, survivors, or bodies were recovered during the day’s search. However, divers successfully established a secured perimeter around the anticipated wreck location, which will guide tomorrow’s operations. The depth of the perimeter has been measured at 40-50 meters, and additional diving equipment and resources will be deployed to facilitate the continuation of these efforts.

NSIB’s Director General, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., acknowledged the relentless work of the rescue teams and supporting partners, stating, “We will continue these operations with every resource necessary and appreciate the cooperation and patience of all stakeholders involved.

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