NNPC: What we know about helicopter that crashed in Rivers

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has reacted to the helicopter that crashed in Port Harcourt, the Rivers state capital, on Thursday.

Daily Trust had reported how three persons were killed in the crash.

In a statement, NNPC spokesperson, Oluwafemi Soneye, said the helicopter was heading to its floating, production, storage and offloading (FPSO) facility.

The company said it engaged the helicopter operated by East Winds Aviation.

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NNPC said it lost contact with the helicopter around 11:22am after taking off from the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) base in Port Harcourt.

The statement said: “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 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.”