The Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau (AIB Ghana) has confirmed that a powerful downdraft a violent downward rush of air was responsible for the tragic helicopter crash that occurred on August 6, 2025, claiming eight lives.
The crash involved a Ghana Air Force Z-9 helicopter that went down in a forested area while flying from Accra to Obuasi on an anti-illegal mining operation.
At a media briefing held at the Jubilee House on Tuesday, November 11, retired pilot and lead investigator Captain Paul Forjoe presented the final report, officially concluding the technical phase of the investigation.
“The investigation determined that the accident was caused by the sudden loss of altitude and lift due to downdraft,” Captain Forjoe explained.
He noted that the downdraft, a strong downward air current, overpowered the helicopter’s rotors, causing a rapid and uncontrollable descent despite the pilot’s proper control inputs and power settings.
“This loss of altitude without change in power or pitch attitude is consistent with downdraft associated with changing environmental conditions over high terrain,” he added.
According to the report, the downdraft occurred over elevated terrain amid rapidly shifting weather conditions. Investigators ruled out both pilot error and mechanical failure, confirming that the crash was entirely the result of environmental forces beyond the crew’s control.
The findings highlight the risks associated with helicopter operations in mountainous or weather-volatile areas, where sudden shifts in temperature and atmospheric pressure can generate dangerous aerodynamic effects.
