Accident
At approximately 1038 hours on 7 January 1997, a Polynesian Airlines de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter, registration 5W-FAU, collided with the western slopes of Mount Vaea in Apia, Samoa. The aircraft was operating a scheduled passenger flight from Pago Pago, American Samoa, to Fagali'i, Samoa. The flight had made an instrument approach to Faleolo Airport before proceeding visually toward Fagali'i.
Conditions
The accident occurred in conditions of low cloud and heavy rain. The aircraft was being flown by visual reference after completing the instrument approach.
Occupants and Injuries
On board were the captain, first officer, and three passengers. The captain and two passengers lost their lives. The first officer and one passenger survived.
Probable Cause
The official investigation identified the following causal factors:
- The decision by the captain to continue the flight toward Fagali'i in reduced visibility and subsequently in cloud.
- Mis-identification of ground features, or an inappropriate heading and altitude flown, as a result of inadequate visual reference.
- Insufficient forward visibility to ensure effective and timely action to avoid a collision with terrain.