Dornier DO228 crash on Santo Antão Island

18 fatalities • Santo Antão Island, Cabo Verde • Flight

A leased Dornier DO228 crashed into a mountainside on Santo Antão Island during an approach to Ponta do Sol, resulting in 18 fatalities.

What happened

On a scheduled flight from São Pedro to Ponta do Sol, a Dornier DO228 was utilized as a substitute for a regularly scheduled Twin Otter that was unavailable due to mechanical issues. The aircraft, operated by TACV - Transportes Aéreos de Cabo Verde via a lease from the Cabo Verde Coast Guards, departed São Pedro Airport for the short flight to Ponta do Sol-Agostinho Neto Airport.

During the approach to the destination on Santo Antão Island, the crew received reports regarding unfavorable weather. Due to visibility levels falling below required minimums, the decision was made to abort the landing and return to the departure airport. While the aircraft was transiting back toward São Pedro amidst heavy rainfall and restricted visibility, it collided with a mountain slope situated in the center of the island. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft and 18 fatalities, with no survivors among the occupants.

Findings

  • The flight was operating in reduced visibility caused by heavy rain.
  • The aircraft struck terrain while attempting to return to the origin airport following an aborted approach.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck a mountainside while flying in low-visibility conditions during a return flight to São Pedro.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1999-08-07 Dornier DO228 accident near Santo Antão Island, Cabo Verde?

A leased Dornier DO228 crashed into a mountainside on Santo Antão Island during an approach to Ponta do Sol, resulting in 18 fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1999-08-07 Dornier DO228 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 18 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1999-08-07 involved a Dornier DO228, registration D4-CBC, operated by Guarda Costeira de Cabo Verde - Airwing, at Santo Antão Island, Cabo Verde.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck a mountainside while flying in low-visibility conditions during a return flight to São Pedro.

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