Bristow Helicopters has confirmed its resumption of flight operations in Nigeria after conducting an enhanced inspection review of its S-76 fleet.

In a statement released on Saturday, Duncan Moore, Bristow’s Regional Director Africa , said “We would wish to reiterate our appreciation for the help, support and understanding we have received from the NCAA, the AIB, our clients and other industry stakeholders during this very difficult period.”

“Bristow continues to cooperate fully with the AIB on the ongoing investigation and has recovered the aircraft that was involved in an accident in Lagos on August 12, 2015. The aircraft, a Sikorsky S76 C+, was certificated to carry 12 passengers plus two crew members. Bristow operated the aircraft configured for 10 passengers and two crew members.”

Bristow Helicopters on Thursday suspended flight operations in Nigeria, following the crash involving one of its aircraft in Lagos on Wednesday.

The Media Consultant for Bristow Helicopters, Mr Cornelius Onuoha, while making the latest announced, said the decision concerning operations will be made on daily basis.

“We have stood down operations at Bristow Helicopters Nigeria as of 8/13/15. Decisions will be made on a daily basis.” On whether the aircraft was too old to fly, he said “No. Bristow is in full compliance with regulatory directives issued for our aircraft. Special maintenance and monitoring programs developed by the aircraft and engine manufacturers, the helicopter operators and the FAA/CAA in recent years have ensured all our aircraft are maintained to optimum standards,” he said.

Onuaha, when asked if the accident was due to pilot error, said “ its much too early to talk about the cause of this incident. It will take weeks or months of investigation to determine why the incident happened.

The investigation will be conducted by the AIB, and we will cooperate fully in that investigation. We will not speculate about what may have been the cause, and we encourage others not to speculate. Our pilots are trained to the highest standards in the industry.”

Source: Today.com

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