The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited says the helicopter that crashed in Port Harcourt, Rivers state, was heading to its floating, production, storage and offloading (FPSO) facility.

In a statement by Oluwafemi Soneye, NNPC spokesperson, on Thursday, the national oil company said it engaged the helicopter operated by East Winds Aviation.

NNPC said at about 11:22am, the company lost contact with the helicopter – register number: 5NBQG — after taking off from the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) base in Port Harcourt.

Earlier, the ministry of aviation and aerospace development, said three persons died in the helicopter crash.

According to NNPC, eight persons were on board — six passengers and two crew members.

“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,” NNPC said.

“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.”

NNPC said the ongoing search and rescue operation will continue to receive support from the national oil company.

The Cable