Wintry Weather Conditions Suspected in Chopper Crash that Claimed Access Holdings CEO and Others
United States authorities revealed on Sunday that preliminary findings suggest wintry weather conditions may have been a contributing factor in the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of Herbert Wigwe, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc, along with his wife, son, and former Nigerian Exchange Group Plc chairperson, Abimbola Ogunbanjo. The incident occurred near the California-Nevada border on Friday, with officials from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) actively investigating the scene.
During a media briefing held early Saturday Nigerian time, Michael Graham, a member of the NTSB, provided insights into the ongoing investigation, stating that teams were diligently examining perishable evidence. Graham emphasized the meticulous review of all available data to ascertain the probable cause of the crash. While acknowledging that the information remained preliminary, witness accounts suggested adverse wintry weather conditions at the time of the accident.
The helicopter, operated by Orbic Air LLC under Part 135 charter flight regulations, was manned by a pilot in command and a safety pilot. Notably, the absence of cockpit voice and flight data recorders complicates the investigation, according to Graham, who underscored that such equipment was not mandatory for this type of aircraft.
Regarding passenger details, Graham indicated that information would be released through the coroner's office in due course. Furthermore, the NTSB pledged a comprehensive investigation into various aspects, including the chopper's airworthiness, maintenance history, structural integrity, operational procedures, meteorological conditions, and air traffic control interactions. Parties involved in the investigation include the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Orbic Air LLC, with potential addition of other stakeholders as the inquiry progresses.
Moreover, in an official statement, Access Holdings Plc confirmed the tragic loss of its CEO, Herbert Wigwe, and his family members. The announcement, issued by Group Company Secretary Sunday Ekwochi, expressed condolences and highlighted the profound impact of the loss on the organization and the broader business community. As investigations continue, authorities remain committed to uncovering the circumstances surrounding this devastating incident.
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