Aircraft crash following bird strike near Contadora Island

20 fatalities • Contadora Island, Panama • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft crashed into the sea approximately 1,500 meters off the coast of Contadora Island after encountering a flock of birds during its initial climb.

What happened

During the climb phase following departure from Contadora Island Airport, the aircraft encountered a flock of birds. The impact resulted in several birds striking the right engine, which subsequently experienced a failure. Following the engine malfunction, the aircraft suffered a loss of airspeed and entered a right-hand roll.

The aircraft eventually impacted the ocean surface at a distance of roughly 1,500 meters from the shore. Out of the total occupants on board, 20 fatalities were recorded. Emergency responders were able to successfully rescue two passengers from the wreckage.

Probable cause

An engine failure caused by a bird strike during the climb phase led to a loss of control and subsequent impact with the sea.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1990-04-18 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter accident near Contadora Island, Panama?

An aircraft crashed into the sea approximately 1,500 meters off the coast of Contadora Island after encountering a flock of birds during its initial climb.

Were there any fatalities in the 1990-04-18 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 20 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1990-04-18 involved a De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter, registration N187SA, operated by Aeroperlas, at Contadora Island, Panama.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An engine failure caused by a bird strike during the climb phase led to a loss of control and subsequent impact with the sea.

Loading the flight search…