The Search and Recovery Team has successfully located the Sikorsky SK76 helicopter wreckage, marking significant progress in their efforts. The helicopter registered as 5N-BQG, operated by Eastwind Aviation, ditched near Bonny Finima in the Atlantic Ocean on October 24, 2024. Targeted night dives successfully identified the wreckage about 0.775 nautical miles from the FPSO Adoon site, demonstrating precise operational efforts.
With coordinates set at Latitude 04° 13.634′ N and Longitude 008° 19.442′ E, the wreckage was located 42 meters deep. Recovery crews have already lifted the helicopter’s tail boom from the water today, advancing the operation’s success. Captain Alex Badeh Jr., Director General of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), praised the allied team for their efforts. “Locating the wreckage is a critical milestone in our efforts to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragic accident.” He noted the exceptional dedication and cooperation from all involved parties, underscoring their commitment to the investigative process. “We remain determined to conduct a thorough investigation to provide clarity and closure to the affected families,” Captain Badeh affirmed.
Additional recovery efforts for the Sikorsky SK76 helicopter wreckage continue, with the NSIB providing updates as available. NSIB has affirmed its commitment to partner collaboration in recovery and investigative measures, aiming to enhance transportation safety in Nigeria.
