Lukoil Overseas reports three fatalities in helicopter crash off Ghana

May 9, 2014
Lukoil Overseas reported that a helicopter on contract to the company and operated by the local airline carrier crashed on May 8 in coastal waters offshore Ghana about 3.4 nautical miles from Takoradi.

Lukoil Overseas reported that a helicopter on contract to the company and operated by the local airline carrier crashed on May 8 in coastal waters offshore Ghana about 3.4 nautical miles from Takoradi.

Three fatalities have been confirmed and one person remains missing. Four survivors have been transported for medical attention to local hospitals and currently remain under medical observation. Lukoil Overseas said the survivors have no known serious injuries.

The eight people onboard included two crew members from the local airline carrier and six representatives of several contracting service companies. No Lukoil employees were onboard.

The helicopter was on a routine crew shuttle mission transporting contractor personnel from the airport in Takoradi to the Jack Ryan offshore drilling rig chartered by Lukoil to conduct exploration activities offshore Ghana, the company said.

A search and rescue mission was launched immediately with support from the Ghana Navy and Air Force and other operators in the area. A search is under way to locate one missing person. Lukoil Overseas said an investigation has been launched to identify the causes of accident.

Lukoil and Vanco Energy Co., Houston, have engaged in exploration activity offshore Ghana since 2008 (OGJ Online, Aug. 27, 2008; Oct. 15, 2010).