Aircraft accident near Mendi Airport

20 fatalities • Mendi, Papua New Guinea • Landing (descent or approach)

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into a mountainside during its approach to Mendi Airport, resulting in no survivors.

What happened

During an approach to Mendi Airport, a twin-engine aircraft encountered adverse weather characterized by rainfall and significantly reduced visibility. While flying at an altitude of 9,200 feet, the aircraft collided with a mountain slope situated approximately 8 km from the start of the runway threshold. The force of the impact caused the airframe to break apart. There were 20 fatalities among the occupants of the aircraft.

Findings

  • The flight was operating in heavy rain and low-visibility conditions at the time of the accident.
  • The collision occurred during the approach phase of flight.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck terrain while flying in poor visibility and heavy rain during its approach to the airport.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1996-07-09 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter accident near Mendi, Papua New Guinea?

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into a mountainside during its approach to Mendi Airport, resulting in no survivors.

Were there any fatalities in the 1996-07-09 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 1996-07-09 involved a De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter, registration P2-MBB, operated by Milne Bay Air - MBA, at Mendi, Papua New Guinea.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck terrain while flying in poor visibility and heavy rain during its approach to the airport.

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