“This is a deeply tragic incident. Today is a difficult day for many, and our thoughts are with the families, close ones and others affected,” says Anders Opedal, Equinor’s chief executive officer.

“Everyone on board the helicopter was on assignment for Equinor. Our key task now is to help take care of those involved. We express our thanks to the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre and everyone involved in the rescue operation and the ongoing work,” says Opedal.

Equinor is cooperating closely with helicopter operator Bristow Norway and relevant authorities in the handling and follow-up of the incident.

The cause of the accident is not yet known. After the accident, Equinor decided to halt all regular flights on the Norwegian continental shelf out of consideration for those affected and to gain an overview of the situation.

The company aims to return to normal helicopter operations soon and is now making the necessary preparations to achieve this safely.

Equinor has established a next-of-kin support line on +47 800 500 20 and has contributed to establishing a centre for next of kin at the Scandic Kokstad hotel in Bergen, in cooperation with the police.