AIB assures thorough investigations into Z-9 helicopter crash

The Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau (AIB) has appealed to the public to avoid speculating about the cause of the Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter crash, which left eight people dead, including two ministers of state.

The Defence Ministry, in a statement dated August 25, confirmed that Acting Defence Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has set up a board to lead the investigations. The process will also benefit from the expertise of officials from the United States, who are providing technical assistance.

At a press briefing in Accra, Acting Commissioner of the Bureau, John M. K. Wumborti, stressed that the investigations will be conducted strictly in line with international protocols and aviation standards.

He explained that while there have been reports suggesting possible causes, including the possibility of a bird strike, the Bureau will not act on speculation. “We don’t speculate. We go in as investigators to investigate and come out with a finding. For now, we don’t have any reason or information about what happened,” he said.

Mr. Wumborti also disclosed that although the Bureau does not typically investigate military aircraft accidents, it has been formally authorized to participate in this probe. A team led by retired pilot Captain Paul Forjoe, alongside a senior aviation engineer, has been appointed to represent the Bureau in the investigation.

The AIB reiterated that its role is not to apportion blame but to make recommendations that can help prevent similar incidents in the future. Officials assured that once the inquiry is completed, the findings will feed into measures aimed at strengthening aviation safety across the country.