What happened
An aviation accident occurred during the initial climb phase following a departure from Apia-Faleolo. The seaplane, which was performing a flight from Samoa toward New Zealand, went down in the ocean shortly after leaving the airfield.
During the impact and subsequent crash, the aircraft's occupants suffered significant casualties. Out of the total people on board, there were seven fatalities and one crew member who sustained serious injuries.
Findings
No specific technical or environmental causes were detailed in the available reports regarding why the aircraft entered the sea during its departure from the airport.