AIB probes Osinbajo’s helicopter crash

The Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) on Sunday said it has commenced investigations into the crash -landing of an Agusto Westland AW139 helicopter conveying Vice President Yemi Osibanjo to Kabba in Kogi State.

Spokesman of the agency, Tunji Oketumbi disclosed this in a telephone interview with The Nation.

He said the bureau has already deployed its team of accident investors to the scene of the helicopter crash in Kabba , Kogi State to unravel cause of the crash.

Oketumbi said AIB’s team of investigators besides combing the crash site to asertain the cause(s) of the accident will also interview the crew – pilots and engineers and other professionals from Caverton Helicopters that operated the ill- fated chopper.

He said the team of investigators will also examine the chopper wreckage and other relevant materials connected to the operations.

Oketumbi disclosed that very soon a preliminary report on the accident will be released.

He said the relevant aeronautical agencies are working hard the unravel the cause of the crash.

A source close to the bureau, however, hinted that the accident report will be released in the next few days.

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) also said it has informed the AIB about the crash.

Its General Manager, Public Relations, Mr. Sam Adurogboye, confirmed the development in a telephone interview.

Adurogboye said the investigation was being conducted by the Accident Investigations Bureau, the statutory agency saddled with the task of investigating such serious incidents and accidents.

“The NCAA has been notified about the incident and we have notified the AIB to begin investigations in line with its mandate,”Adurogboye said.

Also confirming the development, Caverton Helicopters, in a statement signed by its Managing Director, Capt. Josiah Choms, said the relevant aviation agencies had been informed about the incident.

Choms said: “An Augsto AW139 Helicopter, under management by Caverton Helicopters was involved in a mishap on landing in Kabba, Kogi State on February 2, 2019 as a result of unusual weather conditions.

“There were no injuries to the passengers or crew on board and they were all quickly and safely evacuated.

“The relevant authorities have been duly informed and an investigation into the incident has commenced. We will, of course, support the authorities as required.

“We wish to reassure the public and our various stakeholders of our unwavering commitment to safety in all our operations,” he said.

Credit: The Nation