1987-05-04: GAF Nomad N.22 (P-817) — Indonesian Navy - TNI-AL Tentara Nasional Indonesia - Angkatan Laut — Mapur Island, Indonesia

3 fatalitiesMapur Island, IndonesiaFlight

A maritime patrol aircraft crashed into the sea near Mapur Island following an engine failure during a flight from Natuna Ranai to Tanjung Pinang.

What happened

During a scheduled maritime patrol mission traveling from Natuna Ranai toward Tanjung Pinang, an aircraft experienced a critical mechanical issue. As the crew was nearing a Singaporean warship, one of the engines ceased functioning. This loss of power prevented the aircraft from sustaining its necessary flight altitude.

In an effort to manage the emergency, the pilot attempted to perform a ditching maneuver. However, the aircraft ultimately impacted the water in the vicinity of Mapur Island. The accident resulted in three fatalities, including the captain and two passengers. Emergency responders were able to successfully rescue the remaining 11 occupants from the wreckage.

Findings

Official investigations into the crash identified an engine failure as the primary event leading to the loss of altitude and subsequent impact with the sea.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by an engine failure of undetermined origin.