Ghana is still reeling from last Wednesday’s tragic Ghana Air Force Z-9 helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight prominent citizens, including two sitting ministers. While speculation is rife, a retired Ghana Armed Forces pilot, Wing Commander (Rtd) Kwaku Kekrebesi, says it’s far too early to point fingers at any specific cause.
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In an exclusive interview, he explained that while weather conditions or engine failure could be factors, only a full investigation can provide answers.
“We have always resisted the temptation to predict the outcome of an accident unless investigations are complete. Let the investigators finish their work,” he said, recalling a similar fatal crash 22 years ago near Nkawkaw.
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The Black Box is Key
According to WG CDR Kekrebesi, investigators will rely heavily on the helicopter’s black box – which contains a Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and a Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) – to piece together the aircraft’s final moments. The FDR captures technical details like altitude, airspeed, and engine performance, while the CVR records cockpit conversations and other in-flight sounds.
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Aircraft Lifespan & Safety
Addressing concerns about the Z-9 helicopter’s age (procured in September 2015), the retired pilot said aircraft generally don’t have a fixed lifespan.
“Parts are regularly changed. The airframe is even X-rayed to check for integrity. Aircraft can fly for over 50 years and still be completely safe,” he noted.
The Victims
The crash claimed the lives of:
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Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister of Environment, Science & Technology
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Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
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Dr Samuel Sarpong, NDC National Vice-Chairman
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Samuel Aboagye, 2024 Parliamentary Candidate
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Sqn. Ldr. Peter Bafemi Anala (Pilot)
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F/O Manaen Twum Ampadu (Co-pilot)
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Sgt. Ernest Addo-Mensah (Crew)
The officials were en route to Obuasi for the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (RCOMSDEP) launch when radar contact was lost. Witnesses say the helicopter burst into flames upon impact at Adansi-Brofoyedu in the Ashanti Region.
The government has since formed a special task force to investigate the disaster.
