E/R: Another helicopter makes emergency landing in Nkawkaw
A helicopter operated by Volta River Aviation was forced to make an emergency landing on Monday morning near the Nkawkaw bypass in the Kwahu West Municipality of the Eastern Region.
The aircraft, identified as a Jet A-1 with registration number 9G-AFW, was flying from Accra to Kumasi when it encountered severe weather, including low visibility, prompting the pilot to land as a safety precaution.
All on board — including the pilot and crew — were reported safe following the incident.
This marks the second helicopter-related emergency in less than a week. Just days earlier, another helicopter with registration number 9G-ADW made an unscheduled landing at the Presbyterian school park in Ajumako Kokoben, Central Region, after flying into turbulent weather conditions. That aircraft was carrying four passengers at the time.
The pilot of the second helicopter, facing worsening visibility and strong winds, opted to land in an open field, later identified as part of a local school compound. The landing drew the attention of curious residents, who gathered to watch the rare sight.
After monitoring the weather and ensuring conditions were safe, the aircraft remained grounded for about an hour before continuing its journey.
These incidents come in the wake of a far more tragic aviation event. On August 6, a military helicopter crashed in Adansi Akrofoum in the Ashanti Region, resulting in the deaths of eight people, including Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister of Environment Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, three other government officials, and three crew members.
The recent string of helicopter-related incidents has raised concerns about flight safety during adverse weather conditions, especially during the current rainy season. Aviation authorities are expected to review protocols to ensure the safety of both passengers and crew in such challenging environments.
