NTSB Reveals Cause of Helicopter Crash That Killed Herbert Wigwe

The final report from the United States National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has attributed the helicopter crash that killed Herbert Wigwe, his family, and a close associate to a combination of pilot error and operational negligence by the flight company. The crash, which occurred on February 9, 2024, near the California-Nevada border, claimed six lives, including Wigwe, his wife Doreen, their son Chizi, and Abimbola Ogunbanjo, former chairman of Nigerian Exchange Group Plc.

According to the report, the pilot chose to continue flying under visual flight rules despite deteriorating weather that required instrument navigation, leading to spatial disorientation and a fatal loss of control. The aircraft, registered as N130CZ, ultimately crashed into the terrain after the pilot reportedly became disoriented in instrument meteorological conditions.

Investigators further found that the helicopter operator had failed to uphold proper safety management practices. The company did not enforce requirements for completing flight risk assessments, documenting maintenance issues, or complying with Part 135 flight regulations. One major concern highlighted was the helicopter’s radar altimeter, which had malfunctioned prior to the flight. Although the issue was discussed with the company’s director of maintenance and a mechanic attempted to fix it, the altimeter remained inoperative. Despite this, the aircraft was cleared to pick up passengers.

The report also noted that during the 40-minute positioning flight to the pickup location, the pilot and company flight follower exchanged communications but failed to address the altimeter malfunction or worsening weather. This lack of communication, coupled with the decision to proceed with the flight, was seen as a critical lapse.

The NTSB concluded that the tragic crash was the result of poor judgment under challenging conditions and a systemic failure by the operator to maintain essential safety protocols.