Investigations into the tragic helicopter crash that occurred on August 6 at Brofoyedu in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region, claiming eight lives, have concluded that the accident was caused by a sudden loss of altitude and lift resulting from a powerful downdraft.
This was revealed by aviation expert and head of the investigative committee, Captain Paul Forjoe, during the presentation of the final report in a public broadcast on Tuesday, November 11.
According to Captain Forjoe, the aircraft encountered a rapid downward air current while flying over high terrain, causing it to lose altitude abruptly. The flight crew, despite their experience and training, were unable to regain control.
“The investigation determined that the accident was caused by the sudden loss of altitude and lift due to a downdraft. This loss of altitude without any change in power or pitch attitude is consistent with downdrafts associated with changing environmental conditions over high terrain,” the report indicated.
Experts explain that downdrafts—strong downward-moving air currents common in turbulent weather and mountainous areas—can drastically affect an aircraft’s ability to maintain stable flight, especially when operating at low altitude.
Captain Forjoe further noted that the crew had successfully completed three flights earlier that same day and were fully qualified, medically fit, and adequately rested at the time of the crash.
The committee’s full report was submitted to President John Mahama and the National Security Council by Acting Minister for Defence, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, on Monday, November 10.
