No fatalities

Engine Failures Precede Crash in Shotover River (ZK-AKT)

Queenstown, New ZealandLanding (descent or approach)

On April 15, 1967, a De Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide (registration ZK-AKT) operated by Southern Scenic Air-Services was involved in an aviation accident near Queenstown, New Zealand during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Double engine failure for undetermined reason. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

After both engines failed in flight, a pilot attempted an emergency landing but crashed in the Shotover River near Queenstown. The three occupants were injured and the aircraft was destroyed.

Introduction

An aircraft crash occurred in the Shotover River, a few kilometers from the destination airfield, after both engines failed during flight. The accident took place following a departure from Te Anau-Manapouri Airport. All three occupants sustained injuries, and the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.

Sequence of Events

Approximately 15 minutes after departing from Te Anau-Manapouri Airport, the left engine began to vibrate and subsequently failed. The pilot continued the intended route toward Queenstown-Frankton Airport. While on approach to that airport, the right engine also failed. The pilot then attempted an emergency landing, but the aircraft crashed in the Shotover River, located few kilometers from the airfield.

Injuries and Damage

The aircraft carried three occupants. All three were injured as a result of the crash. The aircraft sustained damage beyond repair.

Probable Cause

According to the official investigation, the probable cause of the accident was a double engine failure for undetermined reason.