3 fatalities

1995-07-31: De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou (M21-13) — Royal Malaysian Air Force - Tentera Udara Diraja Malaysia — Labuan, Malaysia

Labuan, MalaysiaLanding (descent or approach)

On July 31, 1995, a De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou (registration M21-13) operated by Royal Malaysian Air Force - Tentera Udara Diraja Malaysia was involved in an aviation accident near Labuan, Malaysia during landing or approach. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure on approach for unknown reasons. 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)Primary reportUpdated 1781207814Data APIEditorial standards

A training flight crashed into the sea near Labuan Airport after an engine failure on approach, killing three crew members and seriously injuring three others.

Incident Overview

A training flight operating out of Labuan Airport ended in tragedy when the aircraft stalled and crashed into the sea several hundred meters offshore. The crew was conducting local training maneuvers, including several touch-and-go landings, before initiating a new approach. During the approach, one of the engines failed, leading to a stall and subsequent impact with the water.

Casualties

Three crew members were killed in the accident, and three others sustained serious injuries. The aircraft was destroyed upon impact.

Investigation Findings

The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident to be an engine failure during the approach phase. The reason for the engine failure remained undetermined at the time of the report.

Sequence of Events

According to the investigation, the crew had completed multiple touch-and-go maneuvers without incident. As they set up for another approach, an engine failed, causing the aircraft to lose lift and stall. The aircraft then descended into the sea, coming to rest in shallow waters. Rescue efforts were launched immediately, but three occupants did not survive.

The accident highlights the critical nature of engine reliability during low-altitude maneuvers. However, no further analysis or recommendations were provided in the official findings.