Aircraft crash off the coast of Samarinda

17 fatalities • Samarinda, Indonesia • Takeoff (climb)

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into the sea shortly after departing from Samarinda, resulting in no survivors.

What happened

Following its departure from Samarinda, a twin engine airplane entered an uncontrolled descent during its initial climb. The aircraft lost stability and transitioned into a steep dive, eventually impacting the ocean surface a few kilometers away from the coastline.

All 17 occupants on board the aircraft perished in the accident. There were no survivors reported from the wreckage.

Findings

During the ascent phase of the flight, the aircraft became unmanageable and plummeted toward the water. The primary factor in the loss of control was the aircraft entering a dive immediately after takeoff.

Probable cause

The aircraft entered an uncontrolled dive during the climb phase following takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1987-12-30 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter accident near Samarinda, Indonesia?

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into the sea shortly after departing from Samarinda, resulting in no survivors.

Were there any fatalities in the 1987-12-30 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 17 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1987-12-30 involved a De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter, registration PK-NUY, operated by Merpati Nusantara Airlines - MNA, at Samarinda, Indonesia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft entered an uncontrolled dive during the climb phase following takeoff.

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