The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has shared insights into the helicopter crash that tragically claimed the lives of Herbert Wigwe, CEO of Access Holdings plc, his wife, their son, and former Nigerian Exchange Group Chairman Abimbola Ogunbanjo, along with two crew members.
According to reports from the NTSB briefing on Sunday, February 11, wintry weather conditions were among the factors believed to have contributed to the crash that resulted in the loss of six lives.
NTSB member Michael Graham explained that the investigation systematically examines all evidence to determine the probable cause of the crash. The helicopter was operated by Orbic Air LLC as a Part 135 charter flight, with a crew consisting of a pilot in command and a safety pilot.
Although details about the passengers were not disclosed, Graham mentioned that any names would be released through the coroner’s office. Additionally, it was noted that the helicopter did not have a cockpit voice recorder or a flight data recorder, as it was not required to be equipped with such devices.
The NTSB investigation will cover various aspects including the helicopter’s airworthiness, maintenance, structure, operations, meteorology, and air traffic control. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Orbic Air LLC are among the parties involved in the investigation, with the French aviation accident investigation agency BEA serving as an accredited representative due to France’s involvement in the manufacture of the Airbus helicopter and the Turbomeca engine.
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