The official investigation into the August 6, 2025, Ghana Air Force Z-9 helicopter crash, which claimed eight lives including two cabinet ministers, has been concluded, revealing that environmental factors, rather than foul play, were responsible for the tragedy.
The investigative board, led by National Security Coordinator DCOP Abdul-Osman Razak and comprising experts from the Ghana Air Force and the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau (AIB-Ghana), with technical support from the United States Air Force, released its findings following extensive analysis of the flight, aircraft, and crew.
The helicopter, which was en route from Accra to Obuasi to attend the launch of the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP), was found to be fully airworthy prior to the flight. The investigative team confirmed that routine checks had been completed and that the crew was properly rested, experienced, and qualified for the mission. The aircraft’s maintenance and operational history showed compliance with all safety regulations.
Flight data indicated that the helicopter experienced no anomalies while traveling from Accra to Obuasi. The crew adjusted the flight path to accommodate weather changes along the route. However, upon ascending near the destination, the aircraft suffered a sudden loss of altitude and lift. Analysis pointed to downdrafts associated with changing environmental conditions over high terrain as the cause. The helicopter’s engines, power, and pitch settings remained consistent, ruling out mechanical failure or human error.
The crash site, located in the Dampa Range Forest Reserve near Sikaman in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region, left the helicopter destroyed and all eight onboard deceased. Those lost included the Minister of Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, the Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, the National Democratic Congress Vice-Chairman Dr Samuel Sarpong, Samuel Aboagye, former NDC parliamentary candidate and NADMO Deputy Director-General, and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Limuna Mohammed. The three crew members lost were Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Malin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
The report underscores the dangers posed by sudden weather changes and downdrafts in high-terrain regions, highlighting the need for additional environmental monitoring for military aviation operations. It also affirms the professionalism and readiness of the Ghana Air Force crew, noting that they adhered to all required rest periods and operational protocols prior to the flight.
By ruling out foul play, the investigation brings closure to lingering public speculation, while emphasizing that aviation accidents, even involving fully certified aircraft and experienced crews, can occur due to unpredictable environmental conditions.
