On November 7, 1989, a Britten-Norman Islander (registration 9L-LAV) operated by Weasua Air Transport was involved in an aviation accident near Monrovia-James Spriggs Payne, Liberia during takeoff. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure during initial climb for unknown reasons. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A twin-engine aircraft on a scheduled flight from Monrovia to Freetown suffered an engine failure after takeoff. The pilot attempted an emergency landing in an open field, but the aircraft crashed, killing the pilot and one passenger and injuring eight others.
Accident
A twin-engine aircraft operating a scheduled passenger flight departed Monrovia-James Spriggs Payne Airport with a destination of Freetown-Lungi Airport. On board were nine passengers and a single pilot. Shortly after takeoff, during the initial climb, the pilot notified air traffic control that an engine had failed and declared an intention to return for an emergency landing. However, realizing that he would be unable to reach the airport, the pilot instead chose to land in an open field. Upon touchdown, the aircraft lost its undercarriage and subsequently crashed. The accident resulted in the deaths of the pilot and one passenger, while the remaining eight occupants sustained injuries.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident to be an engine failure that occurred during the initial climb phase of flight. The reason for the engine failure could not be established.
What happened in the 7 Nov 1989 Britten-Norman Islander accident near Monrovia-James Spriggs Payne, Liberia?
A twin-engine aircraft on a scheduled flight from Monrovia to Freetown suffered an engine failure after takeoff. The pilot attempted an emergency landing in an open field, but the aircraft crashed, killing the pilot and one passenger and injuring eight others.
Were there any fatalities in the 7 Nov 1989 Britten-Norman Islander accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 7 Nov 1989 involved a Britten-Norman Islander, registration 9L-LAV, operated by Weasua Air Transport, at Monrovia-James Spriggs Payne, Liberia.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Engine failure during initial climb for unknown reasons
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