NNPCL confirms three dead, 5 missing in Rivers helicopter crash

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited )NNPCL) has confirmed that three of its workers died in the ill-fated helicopter that crashed in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Thursday.

The company’s chief corporate communication officer, Olufemi Soneye, confirmed this in a statement issued in Abuja shortly after the incident.

He said the helicopter operated by East Winds Aviation was engaged by NNPCL.

The incident occurred at 11:22 a.m. along the waterways in Port Harcourt shortly after the helicopter, a Sikorsky SK76 with registration 5NBQG and operated by East Wind Aviation, took off from Port Harcourt Military Base (DNPM) to the FPSO – NUIMS ANTAN oil rig.

The statement read: “On the 24th of October 2024, about 11:22 a.m., we lost contact with the Helicopter – Register Number: 5NBQG, engaged by NNPC Limited, that took off from Port Harcourt NAF Base en route to the FPSO – NUIMS ANTAN.

“The helicopter was operated by East Winds Aviation. There were 8 persons on board (6 passengers and 2 crew members).

“The appropriate authorities have been contacted, including the Ministry of Aviation, who have since issued a press statement.

“Search and rescue missions are currently ongoing. So far, three (3) bodies have been recovered.

“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 you that we will continue doing everything possible to support the ongoing search and rescue operation.

Similarly, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Odutayo Oluseyi confirmed that a total of eight persons were onboard the helicopter.

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