5 fatalities

Fatal aircraft crash during training flight at Kuching Airport (M21-05)

Kuching, MalaysiaLanding (descent or approach)

On May 24, 1999, a De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou (registration M21-05) operated by Royal Malaysian Air Force - Tentera Udara Diraja Malaysia was involved in an aviation accident near Kuching, Malaysia during landing or approach. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The crash was caused by an engine failure of unknown origin during the final approach to the runway. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-13Data APIEditorial standards

A training flight ended in a fatal accident near Kuching Airport after an engine failure occurred during the final approach phase.

What happened

During a routine local training mission operating out of Kuching Airport, an aircraft experienced a critical mechanical issue while maneuvering for landing. As the crew was performing the final approach to the runway, one of the engines ceased functioning properly.

This loss of power resulted in a significant reduction in altitude that the crew could not recover. The aircraft subsequently descended into a swampy region located in the vicinity of the airport. The impact of the crash resulted in five fatalities, with no survivors reported among the occupants.

Findings

Official investigations into the accident focused on the sudden loss of propulsion during the approach phase. The primary factor identified was an engine failure occurring for reasons that remain undetermined.

Probable cause

The crash was caused by an engine failure of unknown origin during the final approach to the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 May 1999 De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou accident near Kuching, Malaysia?

A training flight ended in a fatal accident near Kuching Airport after an engine failure occurred during the final approach phase.

Were there any fatalities in the 24 May 1999 De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 May 1999 involved a De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou, registration M21-05, operated by Royal Malaysian Air Force - Tentera Udara Diraja Malaysia, at Kuching, Malaysia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crash was caused by an engine failure of unknown origin during the final approach to the runway.