Helicopter Crash: No Trace Of Missing Persons, Debris NSIB

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has confirmed that search teams have not yet located the debris or the three people still missing 48 hours after a helicopter crash in Port Harcourt.

In a statement on Saturday, Bimbo Oladeji, the NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, announced that rescue operations resumed at 7:30 AM local time, following global search protocols, but concluded later in the day without new findings.

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The search area has since been expanded in an effort to locate any debris or survivors.

The crash involved a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, operated by Eastwind Aviation, en route to the FPSO – NUIMS ANTAN, with eight people on board (six passengers and two crew members).

Rescue and investigative teams, including NSIB Aviation Safety Investigators and officials from the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, arrived at the NUIMS Antan facility to gather information on-site.

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Search operations were suspended around 6:15 PM on October 25 due to low light, though divers successfully established a secure perimeter at an expected wreck location, measuring depths between 40-50 meters, to aid the search efforts planned for the following day.

NSIB Director General Captain Alex Badeh acknowledged the dedication of the rescue teams, stating, “We will continue these operations with every resource necessary and appreciate the cooperation and patience of all stakeholders involved.”