On May 11, 1996, a Britten-Norman Islander (registration P2-ISD) operated by Milne Bay Air - MBA was involved in an aviation accident near Oumba, Papua New Guinea in flight. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot failed to monitor his speed indicator and failed to realize the speed dropped while trying to get out of a deep valley. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
While flying from Menyamya to Marawaka, an aircraft stalled at 80 knots in a deep valley, struck trees, and crashed on hilly terrain, killing one passenger and injuring nine others.
Incident Overview
An aircraft en route from Menyamya to Marawaka encountered deteriorating weather conditions while navigating a deep valley. The pilot decided to locate a break in the clouds to exit the area. During this maneuver, at an indicated airspeed of 80 knots, the aircraft entered an aerodynamic stall. It subsequently collided with trees and impacted hilly terrain.
Casualties and Damage
The crash resulted in the death of one passenger. Nine other occupants sustained injuries. The aircraft was destroyed by the impact.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident. The pilot failed to monitor the airspeed indicator and did not recognize that the speed had decreased while attempting to climb out of the deep valley.
What happened in the 11 May 1996 Britten-Norman Islander accident near Oumba, Papua New Guinea?
While flying from Menyamya to Marawaka, an aircraft stalled at 80 knots in a deep valley, struck trees, and crashed on hilly terrain, killing one passenger and injuring nine others.
Were there any fatalities in the 11 May 1996 Britten-Norman Islander accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 11 May 1996 involved a Britten-Norman Islander, registration P2-ISD, operated by Milne Bay Air - MBA, at Oumba, Papua New Guinea.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot failed to monitor his speed indicator and failed to realize the speed dropped while trying to get out of a deep valley.
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