August 6 helicopter crash caused by sudden loss of altitude — Report

The investigation commissioned into the tragic helicopter crash that occurred near Obuasi in the Ashanti Region has revealed its cause.

According to the report presented to the public on Tuesday, November 11, the crash was primarily due to a sudden loss of altitude and lift caused by a downdraft.

The report explained that the loss of altitude without any change in engine power or the helicopter’s angle (pitch attitude) was consistent with a downdraft linked to changing weather conditions over high terrain.

“The investigation determined that the accident was caused by the sudden loss of altitude and lift due to downdraft.

“This loss of altitude without change in power or pitch attitude is consistent with downdraft associated with changing environmental conditions over high terrain,” the report stated in part.

The tragic crash claimed the lives of all eight people on board, including two cabinet ministers who were travelling to Obuasi for a responsible mining initiative.

The victims were given a state burial at the 37 Military Cemetery after a funeral service held at the Independence Square in Accra.

Meanwhile, investigation report, was prepared after about three months of detailed assessments and consultations under the leadership of the National Security Coordinator Abdul-Osman Razak.

It captured findings and expert opinions from the Ghana Air Force, the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), and foreign aviation experts.