The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has shed more light on the circumstances surrounding the recent helicopter crash near Tema, describing it as a tragic incident involving sacrifice to save lives.

Addressing Members of Parliament on the floor of the House, Bagbin explained that the victims were highly trained aviation professionals who had assisted in establishing a pilot training institute in the country.

According to him, the team had successfully concluded discussions on an agreement to develop local pilot training capacity using national aviation facilities before the unfortunate incident occurred.

“These were professionals who came to assist us to establish a training institute for our pilots. They had completed their assignment and were returning when the incident happened,” he stated.

The Speaker revealed that the crash occurred when the helicopter encountered difficulties while attempting to land near Tema.

He explained that a group of young people had gathered at the landing area, making it unsafe for the aircraft to touch down.

“Young people rushed to the area, and it became very difficult to land. Landing would have led to the loss of many youthful lives,” he noted.

Bagbin said the pilot, described as an experienced trainer, made a split-second decision to ascend again in an effort to avoid hitting civilians.
“The pilot had to suddenly lift the aircraft again to save lives but unfortunately, that led to the crash,” he explained.

Hebron Camp pastor recounts last interaction with sons minutes before fatal crash

“In situations like this, you sacrifice your life rather than cause the loss of many others. That is what happened,” he added.

He further justified the need for a state-assisted funeral, describing the victims as heroes who acted in the national interest.

“This is a very important national funeral, and we must show concern, support, and be present,” he urged Members of Parliament.

Meanwhile, the burial of two victims, Frank Donkor and Elijah Donkor, is scheduled to take place on March 28, 2026, at the Jubilee House.

The two are children of the Founder and Leader of the Hebron Prayer Camp, Elder Frank Donkor.

Elder Donkor has expressed profound gratitude to John Dramani Mahama for the support extended to the family during this difficult time.

“We are deeply grateful for the support shown to us in this painful moment,” he said.

According to him, the decision to hold the burial at the Jubilee House reflects the level of national recognition and honour accorded to the deceased.

Speaker Alban Bagbin says the government’s state-assisted funeral for the victims of the Tema microlight crash honours their selfless act, which prevented further loss of life among pupils. He urged Members of Parliament to attend the funeral scheduled for tomorrow.#TemaCrash… pic.twitter.com/6rj7s1xwPc

— CITI FM 97.3 (@Citi973) March 27, 2026