Photo of the victims who died in the helicopter crash
The committee investigating the August 6, 2025 Ghana Air Force helicopter crash that killed eight people, including two ministers of state and senior government officials, has recommended urgent upgrades to aircraft safety systems and the modernisation of the Air Force fleet.
Presenting its findings in Accra on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, lead investigator Captain (Rtd) Paul Forjoe said the accident was caused by sudden adverse weather conditions but noted that improved safety technology and recurrent training could help prevent future tragedies.
“There is a definite need to modernise the fleet of the Ghana Air Force. Implementing these safety recommendations will prevent the recurrence of future accidents,” Captain Forjoe said.
Same crew operated Z-9 on last three flights before fatal crash – Captain Forjoe
The committee recommended that government:
• Acquire modern aircraft fitted with terrain avoidance warning systems and advanced navigation technology.
• Install voice recorders and audiovisual-capable flight data recorders on all aircraft.
• Invest in certified simulators and recurrent pilot training, and contract expert aviation instructors.
• Develop en-route navigational aids, especially for remote operational routes.
• Establish a flight data monitoring and tracking system.
• Modernise ground support equipment to enhance operational readiness and safety.
The investigative committee was constituted shortly after the crash to determine its cause and propose preventive measures.
Its work involved collaboration with the Ghana Air Force, the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), National Security, and international aviation experts.
The crash involved a Harbin Z-9EH military helicopter with tail number GHF 631, which departed Accra on August 6, 2025, at about 9:12 a.m. en route to Obuasi in the Ashanti Region on an anti-illegal mining operation.
Family of helicopter crash victim speaks after investigative report
The aircraft lost radar contact and later crashed in the Adansi Akrofuom District.
Among the victims were:
• Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Minister of Defence
• Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister of Environment, Science and Technology
• Muniru Mohammed Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
• Samuel Sarpong, Vice-Chair of the NDC
• Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate
• Wing Commander Peter Bafemi Anala
• Flight Lieutenant Twum Ampadu
• Flight Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah
MRA/MA
Presentation of August 6 Helicopter Crash Report
