Aircraft excursion during takeoff at Bili Airfield

No fatalities • Bili, Papua New Guinea • Takeoff (climb)

A training flight ended in an aircraft excursion after the plane veered off a grass runway during its takeoff roll.

What happened

During a routine local training mission operating out of Bili Airfield, an aircraft experienced a loss of control during the initial stages of flight. While performing the takeoff roll on a grass-surfaced airstrip, the plane drifted from the intended path of the runway. This excursion caused the aircraft to veer off the strip, resulting in the separation of the undercarriage from the airframe.

The aircraft eventually came to a complete stop after the departure from the runway. Despite the impact, both members of the flight crew were able to exit the wreckage without sustaining any injuries. The incident resulted in zero fatalities and zero injuries.

Findings

While the specific mechanical or environmental triggers were not detailed, the aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss. The primary factor in the accident was the loss of directional control during the takeoff roll on the unpaved surface.

Probable cause

The aircraft veered off the grass runway during the takeoff roll, leading to the loss of the undercarriage.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1995-01-03 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter accident near Bili, Papua New Guinea?

A training flight ended in an aircraft excursion after the plane veered off a grass runway during its takeoff roll.

Were there any fatalities in the 1995-01-03 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1995-01-03 involved a De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter, registration P2-IAA, operated by Islands Nationair, at Bili, Papua New Guinea.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft veered off the grass runway during the takeoff roll, leading to the loss of the undercarriage.

Loading the flight search…