UPDATED at 11:55 am December 7, 2023 – Revised location of the site of the missing helicopter based on ELT transmission.
In a developing and concerning incident, a recently commissioned Guyana Defence Force helicopter, a Bell 412EPI, registration 8R-AYR, has gone missing with 7 persons on board. The mission aimed to visit troops near the Guyana/Venezuela Border region.
The helicopter made a refueling stop at Olive Creek before continuing its journey. Shortly after takeoff from this point, communication with the helicopter was lost. The Emergency Locator Transmission (ELT) signal was detected by satellite, triggering a notification to the Guyana Aviation Authorities. The ELT signal is activated by accelerometers in the device, detecting a strong impact (typically exceeding 5g) or manual activation from the cockpit or on the device.
Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force Omar Khan in a press conference reported the aircraft faced challenging weather conditions, including heavy overcast and rain in mountainous terrain. Despite immediate efforts by aviation authorities, communication could not be reestablished. A comprehensive plan was activated, involving a search and rescue team deployed in coordination with the public sector and the Guyana Joint Services, along with a helicopter operated by OMNI, known for its support in the oil sector.
The Guyana Defence Force has been in contact with the relatives of those on board, assuring that every effort is being made to locate and bring them back safely.
Search efforts were paused with nightfall but are set to recommence at first light, utilizing both aircraft and ground troops. Responding to inquiries from the press, Chief of Staff Khan clarified that there were no eyewitness reports, no information on Venezuelan aircraft in the border area, and the incident occurred approximately 30 miles east of the border near the village of Arau. The area is described as uninhabited, heavily forested, and mountainous, with Ekereku being the closest location.
Additional assets from partners are scheduled to join the search on Friday, emphasizing a collaborative approach. The Guyana Civil Aviation has activated its plan to gather maintenance records and other pertinent information related to all aspects of the aircraft’s operation.
Onboard the missing helicopter is a satellite phone, along with standard aircraft radios; however, no communication has been received. The situation remains fluid, and updates will be provided as the search and rescue operation unfolds.
The missing occupants of the missing aircraft are:
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The occupants of the missing helicopter 8R-AYA Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles, Pilot
- Lieutenant Colonel Michael Shahoud, Commander of the 1st Infantry Battalion
- Retired Brigadier, Gary Beaton
- Lieutenant, Andio Michael Crawford
- Lieutenant Colonel, Sean Welcome
- Sergeant, Jason Khan
- Corporal, Dwayne Jackson
