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Our Personnel Were On Board – NNPCL Speaks On Helicopter Crash

Published

2 months ago

Oct 24, 2024.

A helicopter carrying personnel for the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) crashed into the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima, off the coast of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Thursday, resulting in a tragic incident.

The Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, operated by East Winds Aviation, had taken off from the Port Harcourt Military Base (DNPM) and was en route to the FPSO – NUIMS ANTAN oil rig when the accident occurred.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the NNPCL spokesman, Olufemi Soneye, confirmed that the helicopter, which was chartered by NNPC Limited, went down at approximately 11:22 a.m. along the waterways near Port Harcourt. Rescue operations were immediately launched in response to the crash, and emergency services are currently at the scene.

According to Odutayo Oluseyi, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, eight people were confirmed to be on board the helicopter at the time of the accident. Authorities have stated that the helicopter ditched into the waters near Bonny Finima, and rescue efforts have been activated to locate and assist the passengers and crew.

In a statement, NNPCL expressed their deep concern over the incident, saying, “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.”