Aircraft crash near Yongai Airfield during diversion

2 fatalities • Ononge, Papua New Guinea • Flight

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into a mountainside while attempting to divert to an alternative airfield due to adverse weather conditions.

What happened

During an approach to Ononge, the flight crew encountered deteriorating weather conditions. In response to the low visibility, the decision was made to divert the flight to Yongai Airfield, situated approximately 27 km northeast of the original destination.

While the twin engine aircraft was cruising at an altitude of 2,286 metres within cloud cover, it impacted the slope of a mountain. Emergency responders were unable to reach the crash site until the following day. The accident resulted in two fatalities among the flight crew, as both pilots died in the impact. The loadmaster sustained serious injuries during the event.

Findings

  • The crew was operating in poor weather conditions and heavy cloud cover at the time of the accident.
  • The impact occurred while the aircraft was in the cruise phase of flight during a diversion maneuver.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck terrain while flying through clouds during a diversion necessitated by poor weather.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2004-07-29 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter accident near Ononge, Papua New Guinea?

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into a mountainside while attempting to divert to an alternative airfield due to adverse weather conditions.

Were there any fatalities in the 2004-07-29 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 2004-07-29 involved a De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter, registration P2-MBA, operated by Airlines PNG, at Ononge, Papua New Guinea.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck terrain while flying through clouds during a diversion necessitated by poor weather.

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