20 fatalities

1990-04-18: De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter (N187SA) — Aeroperlas — Contadora Island, Panama

Contadora Island, PanamaTakeoff (climb)

On April 18, 1990, a De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter (registration N187SA) operated by Aeroperlas was involved in an aviation accident near Contadora Island, Panama during takeoff. 20 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the right engine due to a bird strike led to a loss of airspeed and control during the takeoff climb. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781212991Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed into the sea near Contadora Island after a bird strike caused an engine failure during its initial climb.

What happened

During the departure phase from Contadora Island Airport, the aircraft encountered a flock of birds while ascending. The impact of the birds resulted in damage to the right-side engine, leading to its total failure. Following this mechanical loss, the aircraft experienced a significant reduction in airspeed and entered a right-hand roll.

The flight path ended when the plane impacted the ocean at a distance of approximately 1,500 meters from the coast. Out of the total number of people on board, 20 fatalities were recorded, while two passengers were successfully rescued from the wreckage.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the primary factor was a bird strike that incapacitated the right engine. This loss of power during the climb phase prevented the crew from maintaining control, ultimately leading to the crash into the sea.

Probable cause

The failure of the right engine due to a bird strike led to a loss of airspeed and control during the takeoff climb.