11 fatalities

Asymmetric Flap Deployment Leads to Crash at Nadi Airport (DQ-FEF)

Nadi, Fiji IslandsLanding (descent or approach)

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.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-11Data APIEditorial standards

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.