On August 20, 1988, a Britten-Norman Islander (registration 5W-FAF) operated by Polynesian Airline of Samoa - Polynesian Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Asau, Samoa Islands (Western Samoa) during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot was unable to stop the aircraft within the remaining runway distance after landing. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
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.
What happened in the 20 Aug 1988 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 20 Aug 1988 Britten-Norman Islander accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Aug 1988 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.
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