The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the federal agency responsible for investigating civil transportation accidents, has released its report on the helicopter crash that claimed the lives of Nigerian billionaire Herbert Wigwe, his family, and others.
- The NTSB released findings on a helicopter crash that killed Nigerian billionaire Herbert Wigwe, his family, and others in February 2024.
- Investigators found the pilot relied on visual cues at night despite worsening weather, leading to disorientation and loss of control.
- Poor weather and adverse conditions delayed rescue efforts, with the wreckage discovered over an hour after the crash.
The NTSB report provided detailed information on the Airbus Helicopter EC130B4, with registration N130CZ, operated by Orbic Air, LLC, which was destroyed in a crash near Halloran Springs, California, on February 9, 2024 killing the Nigerian billionaire and some family members.
Nigerian billionaire, Herbert Wigwe, ex-CEO of Access Bank, was on board the aircraft along with his wife and their 29-year-old son.
Also among the victims was Bamofin Abimbola Ogunbanjo, former chairman of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, whose death stunned the Nigerian public and the financial sector.
The two pilots—Benjamin Pettingill, 25, and Blake Hansen, 22—also died in the crash.
The NTSB investigation result
Below is an excerpt from the report:
Before the Part 135 charter flight, there was no record that the pilot or safety pilot obtained an official weather briefing. It’s unclear what weather information, if any, they reviewed through apps like ForeFlight. The pilot completed a flight risk analysis form showing a low-risk score under company standards.
The helicopter departed at night under visual flight rules, relying on freeway and vehicle lights for orientation. As the flight progressed, deteriorating weather—including low ceilings and reduced visibility—likely led the pilot to fly lower and slower. The helicopter deviated from its route, possibly in response to worsening conditions.
Two minutes before the crash, the helicopter increased speed and altitude, possibly indicating an attempt to recover from entering poor visibility. It then entered a right turn and a rapid descent, ultimately crashing in hilly terrain. Witnesses saw a fireball and reported rain and snow at the time.
Adverse weather also hindered rescue efforts. The wreckage was found over an hour later, with no survivors.
Regarding the probable cause of the accident, the NTSB found that the pilot’s decision to continue flying by visual cues despite poor weather conditions led to disorientation and loss of control.
Investigators also noted that the helicopter operator failed to properly oversee key safety procedures, including conducting risk assessments, maintaining accurate maintenance logs, and ensuring the aircraft met regulatory requirements before takeoff.
