Aircraft overrun into lagoon at Asau Airport

No fatalities • Asau, Samoa Islands (Western Samoa) • Landing (descent or approach)

A Britten-Norman Islander failed to stop after landing at Asau Airport, resulting in an excursion into a nearby lagoon.

What happened

During an arrival at Asau Airport, a Britten-Norman Islander was unable to decelerate sufficiently before the end of the runway. The aircraft overran the paved surface and exited the airfield perimeter, eventually plunging into a lagoon located adjacent to the landing strip.

Despite the impact with the water, there were no casualties reported among those on board. The incident resulted in no fatalities or injuries.

Findings

  • The aircraft failed to come to a complete stop within the available runway length.
  • Inadequate braking distance led to the excursion into the lagoon.

Probable cause

The pilot was unable to stop the aircraft within the remaining runway distance after landing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1988-08-20 Britten-Norman Islander accident near Asau, Samoa Islands (Western Samoa)?

A Britten-Norman Islander failed to stop after landing at Asau Airport, resulting in an excursion into a nearby lagoon.

Were there any fatalities in the 1988-08-20 Britten-Norman Islander accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1988-08-20 involved a Britten-Norman Islander, registration 5W-FAF, operated by Polynesian Airline of Samoa - Polynesian Airlines, at Asau, Samoa Islands (Western Samoa).

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot was unable to stop the aircraft within the remaining runway distance after landing.

Loading the flight search…