Aircraft impact on Mt Yasirua during flight to Goroka

2 fatalities • Goroka, Papua New Guinea • Landing (descent or approach)

A flight traveling from Chimbu to Goroka crashed into a mountain slope during poor weather conditions, resulting in two fatalities.

What happened

While operating a flight from Chimbu to Goroka, the flight crew encountered adverse meteorological conditions characterized by fog and rainfall. Although other crews in the area opted to divert to Madang Airport due to the weather, the crew of this flight elected to proceed with their original route.

While maintaining an altitude of 7,400 feet amidst restricted visibility, the aircraft collided with the side of Mt Yasirua. The impact occurred approximately 7.2 km northeast of Goroka Airport. Of the four people on board, there were two fatalities and two survivors, consisting of the pilot and one passenger.

Findings

  • The flight was operating in limited visibility caused by fog and rain.
  • The crew chose to continue the flight despite the presence of deteriorating weather that prompted other aircraft to divert.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck a mountain slope while flying in low-visibility weather conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-07-18 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter accident near Goroka, Papua New Guinea?

A flight traveling from Chimbu to Goroka crashed into a mountain slope during poor weather conditions, resulting in two fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1997-07-18 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-07-18 involved a De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter, registration P2-MMU, operated by Goroka Air Services, at Goroka, Papua New Guinea.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck a mountain slope while flying in low-visibility weather conditions.

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