3 dead as helicopter crashed into Atlantic Ocean in Rivers

A helicopter operated by Eastwind Aviation has ditched into waters at Bonny Finima (Atlantic Ocean) on Thursday.

In a statement by the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection of the Nigeria Airspace Management Agency, Abdullahi Musa, said the accident occurred at about 11:22am.

The helicopter carried 8 persons with 3 bodies so far recoverd.

The statement read: “Te aircraft which departed Port Harcourt Airport Base to an oil rig had 8 persons on board with fuel endurance of 0215. Rescue operations so far have recovered 3 bodies.

“Search and Rescue coordination activities were activated in NAMA while details of the incident were escalated to the Honourable Minister of Aviation, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Bonny tower, Osubi tower and Escravos tower for further actions.

“In the same vein, all emergency services and organizations including the military have been contacted for the search mission.

“Other low-flying aircraft and helicopters are being engaged to look out for floating objects or persons in need of rescue.

“Neigbouring aerodromes and adjacent airspaces have also been contacted.

“More details shall be provided as they unfold.”