The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has confirmed that the wreckage of the Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, operated by Eastwind Aviation and registered as 5N BQG, has been located in the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny, following intensive search and recovery operations. The helicopter, carrying eight individuals, crashed on October 24, 2024, en route from the Port Harcourt Military Base to the FPSO – NUIMS ANTAN oil rig, operated by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Bimbo Oladeji, revealed in a statement that the wreckage was discovered approximately 0.775 nautical miles from the FPSO Adoon at a depth of 42 meters. Recovery dives yielded coordinates at Latitude 04° 13.634′ N and Longitude 008° 19.442′ E, with the helicopter’s tail boom successfully retrieved.
NSIB Director General, Alex Badeh Jr., commended the efforts of the allied recovery team, describing the discovery as a significant step toward uncovering the causes of the tragic incident. “The dedication and cooperation shown by all involved parties have been exceptional, and we are determined to conduct a thorough investigation to provide clarity and closure to the families of those affected,” he stated.
Efforts to recover the remaining parts of the wreckage are ongoing. Currently, four of the eight individuals on board have been confirmed as deceased, with recovery efforts for the remaining passengers still in progress.
