Ministry of Defense Launches Committee to Investigate Z-9 Helicopter Crash

The Ministry of Defense, under the leadership of Hon. Ato Forson, has confirmed that the committee set up to investigate the recent Z-9 helicopter crash has officially begun its work.

The announcement follows growing public interest and calls for a transparent inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident, which claimed lives and raised questions about the safety of the country’s military aviation operations.

According to the Ministry, the committee has been tasked with conducting a comprehensive probe into the causes of the crash. Their mandate includes examining the mechanical integrity of the aircraft, assessing compliance with aviation safety protocols, reviewing the maintenance history of the Z-9 fleet, and analyzing operational conditions at the time of the incident.

In a bid to ensure credibility and accuracy, the investigation team will receive technical support from U.S. Air Force specialists. These international experts are expected to bring advanced expertise in accident reconstruction, flight data analysis, and aircraft safety assessments to strengthen the credibility of the final report.

Hon. Ato Forson emphasized the government’s commitment to transparency, noting that the committee has been given a strict 30-day deadline to conclude its work and submit a comprehensive report. “We owe it to the families affected, the Ghana Armed Forces, and the general public to uncover the truth behind this tragedy and to take corrective actions to prevent future occurrences,” he stated.

The Defense Ministry further assured the public that the outcome of the probe will not only address the immediate crash but also provide long-term recommendations to enhance the safety and efficiency of the Ghana Armed Forces’ air operations.

Meanwhile, the crash has reignited debates about the state of the military’s air fleet and the urgent need for modernization and stricter maintenance standards. Analysts suggest that the committee’s findings could significantly influence future procurement policies and investment in aviation safety infrastructure.

The Ministry has called on the public and media to exercise patience while the investigation proceeds, assuring that updates will be shared in due course.