What happened
On Monday, 14 July 2008, a de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter, registration 8Q-MAS, was operating a non-scheduled VFR flight from the Male International Airport Water Aerodrome to Adaaran Club Bathala. The aircraft was carrying 14 passengers and a crew of two, with 930 lbs of fuel on board. The flight was part of a self-dispatch system used by the operator.
During the approach to the destination, the aircraft encountered windy conditions with westerly winds between 20 and 25 knots and a rough sea state. The crew performed an orbit over the lagoon to inspect the water surface before attempting a touchdown. As the aircraft touched down and began traversing the wave tops to identify a suitable stopping point, it struck a large wave, causing the aircraft to become airborne and veer to the left.
In response to the instability, the pilot initiated a go-around procedure, applying full throttle, maximum propeller RPM, and 10 degrees of flaps. During this climb phase, the aircraft collided with the Angelina, a 34-foot Triana Express speedboat moored at a buoy near a floating platform. Following the impact, the aircraft veered to the right, though the pilot was eventually able to bring the aircraft down on its left float. There were no reported fatalities among the 14 passengers or the crew.
Findings
- The sea conditions were characterized by rough water and significant waves.
- The aircraft struck a large wave during the landing roll, which caused it to lift off the water and lose directional control.
- The collision occurred while the aircraft was executing a go-around maneuver near a moored vessel.