UPDATE: CRASHED HELICOPTER HAD NNPCL PERSONNEL ONBOARD

October 24, 2024October 24, 2024

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On Thursday, a helicopter carrying Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) personnel crashed in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State.

In a statement, NNPCL spokesman Olufemi Soneye revealed that NNPC Limited contracted with East Winds Aviation to operate the aircraft.

The helicopter, a Sikorsky SK76 with registration 5NBQG and operated by East Wind Aviation, crashed along the waterways in Port Harcourt at 11:22 a.m. when it took off from Port Harcourt Military Base (DNPM) for the FPSO-NNUIMS ANTAN oil platform.

The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development’s spokeswoman, Odutayo Oluseyi, verified that eight people were on board.

The aircraft ditched into the waters near Bonny Finima in the Atlantic Ocean, the authorities said in a statement, adding that rescue efforts have been activated.

“We shall continue to monitor the situation and provide regular updates as the events unfold. Our prayers are with the passengers, crew and their respective families at this very difficult time.

“We assure that we will continue doing everything possible to support the ongoing search and rescue operation,” the NNPCL said.