3 fatalities

Engine Failure and Stall During Turn Lead to Fatal Crash in Mentaya River (PK-VIP)

Sampit, IndonesiaTakeoff (climb)

On September 3, 1991, a Britten-Norman Islander (registration PK-VIP) operated by Dirgantara Air Service was involved in an aviation accident near Sampit, Indonesia during takeoff. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of power on the right engine during initial climb for unknown reasons. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-11Data APIEditorial standards

Shortly after takeoff from Sampit Airport, the right engine of a twin-engine aircraft lost power during climb. The crew initiated a left turn to return, but the aircraft stalled and crashed into the Mentaya River, killing three and injuring seven others.

Accident Overview

On the day of the accident, the aircraft departed from Sampit Airport, Indonesia. During the initial climb after takeoff, the right engine experienced a loss of power. The flight crew responded by initiating a left turn, intending to return to the airport.

Sequence of Events

While executing the left turn, the aircraft entered an aerodynamic stall, losing lift and control. It subsequently descended and crashed into the Mentaya River. The impact resulted in fatalities: both pilots and one passenger were killed. The remaining seven occupants on board sustained injuries.

Probable Cause

According to the official investigation, the probable cause of the accident was a loss of power on the right engine during the initial climb, the reason for which could not be determined.