Helicopter conveying eight NNPCL personnel on Thursday crashed in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State. The tragic incident occurred in the late morning hours, leaving authorities and rescue teams scrambling to respond. According to early reports, the helicopter had been contracted by NNPCL for official transportation purposes.
NNPCL spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye, confirmed the helicopter was operated by East Winds Aviation, a private aviation company. The aircraft was in transit when it met with disastrous circumstances, though the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation. The incident has sent shockwaves through the NNPCL and aviation communities, raising concerns about aviation safety standards in the oil and gas sector.
Helicopter Operated by East Winds Aviation Crashes
The ill-fated helicopter, a Sikorsky SK76 registered as 5NBQG, was being operated by East Winds Aviation, a company frequently contracted by NNPCL for personnel transport. The aircraft had just taken off from the Port Harcourt Military Base, also known as DNPM, when the crash occurred. It was on its way to the FPSO – NUIMS ANTAN oil rig, a vital hub in Nigeria’s offshore oil production.
The accident, which took place at approximately 11:22 a.m., happened along the waterways near Port Harcourt. While weather conditions and mechanical issues are being examined as potential causes, the Civil Aviation Authority and other relevant agencies have launched a full-scale investigation to determine the exact factors that led to the crash.
Eight Individuals Were Onboard, Confirms Ministry of Aviation
The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development has confirmed that eight individuals were aboard the helicopter at the time of the crash. The Ministry’s spokesperson, Odutayo Oluseyi, revealed that the passengers included both NNPCL personnel and crew members. Rescue operations were swiftly deployed, with both maritime and aerial teams scouring the crash site for survivors.
As of now, the condition of those onboard remains undisclosed, although rescue efforts continue with hopes of finding survivors. The Aviation Ministry is closely monitoring the situation, coordinating with emergency response units and local authorities to manage the aftermath of the crash.
NNPCL Responds to Tragic Incident
NNPCL has expressed deep concern over the incident, with the company’s leadership promising full cooperation with investigators. In a statement issued by spokesperson Olufemi Soneye, NNPCL acknowledged the involvement of their personnel in the crash and assured that all necessary steps are being taken to determine the cause and prevent future occurrences.
NNPCL has long relied on helicopter transport to move personnel between its onshore bases and offshore oil rigs. While aviation incidents involving the oil and gas sector are rare, this crash highlights the inherent risks associated with operating in remote and challenging environments like the Niger Delta region.
Aviation Safety Under Scrutiny After Crash
The helicopter crash has reignited concerns about the safety protocols followed by companies contracted to the oil and gas sector. Aviation safety experts are already calling for a thorough review of operational procedures, particularly those related to helicopter transport in Nigeria’s offshore oil fields. With the helicopter reportedly undergoing routine checks before the flight, questions remain as to what could have led to the sudden and fatal incident.
In recent years, Nigeria has witnessed several aviation accidents involving commercial and private aircraft, prompting calls for stricter regulatory oversight. The current crash will likely lead to heightened scrutiny over both private aviation firms and government contracts involving high-risk travel.
Investigation Underway to Determine Cause
An official investigation into the crash has been launched, with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) leading the inquiry. The aircraft’s black box has been retrieved from the wreckage, and analysis is underway to uncover the sequence of events leading up to the crash. East Winds Aviation has also pledged its full cooperation with the authorities and has grounded its fleet for safety inspections.
The findings of the investigation will be critical not only for the aviation sector but also for the oil and gas industry, where helicopter travel remains a crucial element of day-to-day operations. The outcome may lead to policy changes aimed at enhancing safety for personnel working in Nigeria’s lucrative but challenging oil fields.
Table of Contents
Discover more from OGM News NG
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
