Accra, Ghana - A new report from the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation Bureau (AIB Ghana) has revealed the cause of the helicopter crash that occurred on August 6, tragically claiming eight lives. The investigation ruled out both sabotage and mechanical failure, pointing instead to a rare and severe turbulence phenomenon as the primary factor.
Captain Paul Forjoe, Head of Investigations at AIB Ghana, presented the findings at a press briefing. He stated that the pilots encountered extreme turbulence conditions over rugged terrain, specifically a phenomenon known as a downdraft. According to Captain Forjoe, these conditions were so severe that "even the best anywhere would have struggled to get out of." This effectively dismisses earlier speculations involving foul play or mechanical issues.
The investigative team meticulously analyzed data from the cockpit voice recorder and the flight data recorder, which captured 93 parameters every second during the helicopter's final 10 hours of flight. This included 48 analogue readings and 45 switch positions, providing a comprehensive understanding of the events leading up to the crash.
"What we are seeing is from informed data. It’s not that we have conjectured something. We have the data. We have looked at it," Captain Forjoe emphasized, highlighting the data-driven nature of the investigation.
The Ghana Air Force Z-9 helicopter experienced severe downdrafts and turbulence, caused by eddies and rotors, a common occurrence over steep terrain. These conditions led to a sudden loss of altitude, despite the aircraft climbing normally with full power. Captain Forjoe clarified that the helicopter only exploded after impact, when the fuel tank, located beneath the passenger compartment, ruptured.
"There was no explosion before," he confirmed, putting to rest claims of a pre-impact explosion. The report provides a detailed and data-backed explanation for the tragic accident, offering closure and valuable insights for future aviation safety measures in Ghana.
Key Findings:
- The crash was caused by a severe downdraft and turbulence.
- Sabotage and mechanical failure were ruled out.
- The helicopter exploded upon impact, not before.
- The investigation relied on extensive data analysis from flight recorders.