The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has initiated a collaborative investigation with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to probe the recent helicopter crash that claimed the life of Herbert Wigwe and five others.
Festus Keyamo, SAN, minister of aviation, provided crucial insights into the ongoing investigation in a statement posted on his X page.
The minister emphasized the meticulous examination of the debris field by the airworthiness investigation group.
According to him, the field, spanning approximately 100 yards, witnessed a thorough inspection of major components, including the main transmission, engine, and various avionic elements.
He stated that concurrently, the operations investigation group has commenced the collection of vital company information, such as pilot records, flight dispatch records, and aircraft maintenance records.
”Plans are in motion for the NTSB to relocate the wreckage to a secure location on Tuesday for an in-depth examination and analysis.
”Key parties involved in the investigation include Orbic Air, LLC, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The Bureau of Enquiry and Analysis for Civil Aviation Safety (BEA), the French aviation accident investigation agency, will also play a role as an accredited representative, given France’s connection as the state of manufacture for the Airbus helicopter and Turbomeca Engine.
”Airbus Helicopters and Turbomeca Engines will act as technical advisors,” he stated.
Anticipated to span 18 to 24 months, the investigation comprises three major milestones, with the preliminary investigation report expected within 14 to 21 days.
The NSIB has assured of its commitment to a comprehensive inquiry that aims to enhance transport safety in Nigeria and the United States.
The tragic Airbus Helicopter EC130B4 crash killed Wigwe, his wife and son, and a former chairman of the Nigeria Stock Exchange Group, Abimbola Ogunbanjo.
