Rescue activities have intensified as three bodies have been recovered, with five missing as an NNPCL chartered helicopter with six passengers and two crew members, crashed earlier today.
The helicopter, with Registration Number: 5NBQG, operated by East Winds Aviation was reportedly enroute to FPSO NUIMS – ANTAN, having lifted off from Port Harcourt NAF Base before disaster struck.
No reason has yet been given as cause of the crash; either human error, machine malfunction or weather conditions.
In a statement reporting the crash, the NNPCL spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye, revealed that all appropriate authorities including the Ministry of Aviation had been informed.
“We shall continue to monitor the situation and provide regular updates as
events unfold.
Search and rescue missions are currently ongoing.
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”, concluded the statement.