Aircraft ditching at Nuku Hiva Airport

10 fatalities • Nuku Hiva, French Polynesia • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft engine failure during final approach led to a ditching off the coast of Nuku Hiva, resulting in multiple fatalities.

What happened

During the final approach to runway 06 at Nuku Hiva Airport, the aircraft experienced a failure of its left engine while maintaining an altitude of approximately 2,000 feet. Following the loss of power, the crew elected to redirect the flight toward runway 24. While executing the approach to the alternative runway, the captain performed a ditching maneuver a short distance from the shoreline.

The impact with the water was described as violent. The accident resulted in 10 fatalities, including the captain, and left 12 other occupants injured, with several of the injuries classified as serious.

Probable cause

The failure of the left engine during the approach necessitated an emergency ditching offshore.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1991-04-18 Dornier DO228 accident near Nuku Hiva, French Polynesia?

An aircraft engine failure during final approach led to a ditching off the coast of Nuku Hiva, resulting in multiple fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1991-04-18 Dornier DO228 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 10 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1991-04-18 involved a Dornier DO228, registration F-OHAB, operated by Air Tahiti, at Nuku Hiva, French Polynesia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?