On June 20, 1977, a Dornier DO.28A/B (registration N96155) operated by Pacific Missionary Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Gabert Island, Federated States of Micronesia during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft encountered severe turbulence during its final approach, causing a loss of altitude and subsequent impact with trees. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A twin-engine airplane crashed into a forested area during its final approach to Gabert Island Airport following severe turbulence.
What happened
During the final approach phase of flight toward Gabert Island Airport, a twin engine airplane encountered intense atmospheric turbulence. This period of severe weather caused the aircraft to lose necessary altitude, leading to an impact within a nearby wooded region. The force of the crash resulted in significant structural failure, leaving both wings partially detached from the fuselage. The impact ultimately led to the total destruction of the airframe.
Findings
The primary factor in the loss of altitude was the encounter with severe turbulence.
There were four injuries reported among the occupants of the aircraft.
The wreckage was located in a forested area near the destination airport.
Probable cause
The aircraft encountered severe turbulence during its final approach, causing a loss of altitude and subsequent impact with trees.