Aircraft crash in Crocker Mountain Range during descent to Kota Kinabalu

12 fatalities • Keningau, Malaysia • Landing (descent or approach)

A leased aircraft traveling from Tokyo to Jakarta crashed into a mountain in Malaysia during its approach to Kota Kinabalu, resulting in no survivors.

What happened

A flight originating from Tokyo-Narita Airport, destined for Jakarta with a scheduled stop in Kota Kinabalu, crashed during its arrival phase. The aircraft was being operated under a lease from DuPont de Nemours for members of the Conoco Group. On board were three crew members and nine passengers.

During the descent toward Kota Kinabalu Airport, air traffic control cleared the flight to 10,000 feet and subsequently 5,000 feet. The crew was directed to follow a southern heading of 180 degrees, with instructions to proceed toward the VJN VOR at 4,000 feet to prepare for an approach to runway 02. While the aircraft was descending through 4,000 feet, it vanished from radar tracking.

Investigations determined that the aircraft struck the terrain in the Crocker Mountain Range, situated approximately 9 km northwest of Keningau and 57 km south of the destination airport. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft and 12 fatalities.

Findings

  • The aircraft struck the slope of a mountain during its descent to 4,000 feet.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck mountainous terrain during its descent to the approach altitude.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1991-09-04 Gulfstream GII accident near Keningau, Malaysia?

A leased aircraft traveling from Tokyo to Jakarta crashed into a mountain in Malaysia during its approach to Kota Kinabalu, resulting in no survivors.

Were there any fatalities in the 1991-09-04 Gulfstream GII accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 12 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1991-09-04 involved a Gulfstream GII, registration N204C, operated by Conoco (Continental Oil Corporation), at Keningau, Malaysia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck mountainous terrain during its descent to the approach altitude.

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