The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has announced that the allied team and partners leading the charge for the search and recovery efforts of the ditched Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, registration 5N BQG, have located its wreckage.
The helicopter, operated by Eastwind Aviation and carrying eight individuals, went down off the coast of Bonny Finima in the Atlantic Ocean on October 24, 2024.
Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, NSIB Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance disclosed in a press release that the wreckage was identified during recovery dives at the late hours of 30th October, 2024 at approximately 0.775 nautical miles from the FPSO Adoon.
She said it was located at a depth of 42 meters, with coordinates registered at Latitude 04° 13.634′ N and Longitude 008° 19.442′ E. Preparations are currently underway for the helicopter’s recovery to support further investigation.
Oladeji explained that Captain Alex Badeh Jr., Director General of NSIB, commended the allied team and partners leading the search and recovery efforts.He said “Locating the wreckage is a critical milestone in our efforts to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragic accident. 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.”
