Helicopter Crashes in Port Harcourt: NNPCL Confirms Tragedy

NNPCL Confirms Fatal Helicopter Crash

“We will continue to do everything possible to support the ongoing...”

A helicopter crash in Port Harcourt has been confirmed by NNPCL, resulting in loss of life.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has confirmed that it hired the helicopter that crashed in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Thursday. The helicopter, operated by East Winds Aviation, was on its way to the NUIMS-ANTAN FPSO when the incident occurred.

According to Olufemi Soneye, NNPCL's Chief Corporate Communications Officer, there were eight persons on board - six passengers and two crew members. Unfortunately, three bodies have been recovered so far from the crash site.

NNPCL has assured that they are working closely with the relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Aviation, and are supporting the ongoing search and rescue operations. The incident has prompted a swift response from emergency services, with rescue operations currently underway.

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

“The helicopter was operated by East Winds Aviation. There were eight persons on board (six passengers and two crew members).

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

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

“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 will continue to do everything possible to support the ongoing search and rescue operation.”

The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development initially reported that three lives were lost in the helicopter crash, which occurred during a routine flight from Port Harcourt's military base to an offshore oil rig, ending in a tragic plunge into the Atlantic Ocean.