A preliminary report into the helicopter crash that killed businessman Wicknell Chivayo, his wife Lucy Muteke and three others is expected within 30 days, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Soda Zhemu, said on Tuesday during a cabinet media briefing.

The Bell 430 helicopter, registered Z-PED and operated by Sky Helicopters Private Limited, crashed on September 30 while travelling from Gandami in Chikomba District, Mashonaland East, to Marondera.

All five people on board died — pilot Captain Calvin Soda, Chivayo, Muteke, Sanelisiwe Magagula and Captain Courage Mutavira.

The government announced that a full investigation has been initiated in accordance with Annex 13 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation and Zimbabwe’s Civil Aviation Act.

Preliminary investigations at the crash site have been completed, while the wreckage has been moved to the Government Hangar at Charles Prince Airport for detailed forensic examination, with international experts involved.

The preliminary report will examine the wreckage, weather conditions, maintenance records and the records of the operator and crew.

The government stated that regular updates will be provided as the investigations proceed.