On December 27, 1986, a De Havilland DH.114 Heron (registration DQ-FEF) operated by Sunflower Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Nadi, Fiji Islands during landing or approach. 11 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Unsecured non-standard flap attachment pin migrated upward and lodged in a lightening hole. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During final approach to Nadi Airport runway 21, a flap asymmetry caused the aircraft to roll left and crash short of the runway. Both pilots and nine passengers were killed, three others seriously injured.
Accident Summary
An aircraft crashed while attempting to land at Nadi Airport, resulting in multiple fatalities. During the landing phase, the aircraft was on final approach for runway 21. At an altitude of approximately 500 feet, a flap asymmetry developed: the right flap became stuck at 35° while the left flap remained deployed at 60°. The resulting roll to the left could not be arrested, and the aircraft struck the ground before reaching the runway threshold.
Casualties
Both pilots and nine passengers were killed in the accident. Three other passengers sustained serious injuries.
Investigation
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be an unsecured non-standard flap attachment pin that migrated upward and lodged in a lightening hole.
What happened in the 27 Dec 1986 De Havilland DH.114 Heron accident near Nadi, Fiji Islands?
During final approach to Nadi Airport runway 21, a flap asymmetry caused the aircraft to roll left and crash short of the runway. Both pilots and nine passengers were killed, three others seriously injured.
Were there any fatalities in the 27 Dec 1986 De Havilland DH.114 Heron accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 11 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 27 Dec 1986 involved a De Havilland DH.114 Heron, registration DQ-FEF, operated by Sunflower Airlines, at Nadi, Fiji Islands.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Unsecured non-standard flap attachment pin migrated upward and lodged in a lightening hole.
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