2 fatalities

1995-07-01: De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou (P2-VTC) — Garamut Aviation — Kiunga, Papua New Guinea

Kiunga, Papua New GuineaLanding (descent or approach)

On July 1, 1995, a De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou (registration P2-VTC) operated by Garamut Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Kiunga, Papua New Guinea during landing or approach. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Double engine failure for unknown reasons. The assumption of a fuel starvation seems excluded. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781207865Data APIEditorial standards

A cargo flight from Port Moresby to Tabubil diverted to Kiunga due to poor weather. Both engines failed, leading to the aircraft crashing 5 km from Kiunga. One pilot survived; two other occupants were killed.

Background

The aircraft, chartered for a cargo flight, was operating under a lease to the Vanimo Trading Company. The flight departed from Port Moresby with the intention of landing at Tabubil Airport.

Accident Sequence

While descending to Tabubil, the flight crew encountered poor weather conditions and decided to divert to Kiunga. During the approach to Kiunga, the right engine failed, followed shortly thereafter by the left engine. The aircraft subsequently lost altitude, struck trees, and crashed approximately 5 kilometers from Kiunga.

Occupants and Injuries

Of the three occupants on board, one pilot survived the crash, while both other occupants were killed.

Investigation and Probable Cause

Official investigation findings attributed the accident to a double engine failure, the cause of which could not be determined. The investigation excluded the possibility of fuel starvation as a contributing factor.