What happened
On the night of 18 November 2009, an Israel Aircraft Industries Westwind 1124A, operating under registration VH-NGA, was conducting an aeromedical transport from Apia, Samoa, to Norfolk Island. The flight was carrying a total of six people, including the pilot, co-pilot, a medical professional, a patient, and one additional passenger.
As the aircraft approached Norfolk Island, the crew encountered severe weather conditions. These conditions resulted in a total loss of visibility, making it impossible for the flight crew to identify the runway or any associated visual landing aids. Fearing that the aircraft would run out of fuel before a safe landing could be attempted, the pilot in command made the decision to ditch the plane in the sea.
Upon impact with the water, the aircraft sustained significant structural damage and broke into two separate pieces. Despite the severity of the impact, all six occupants managed to exit the wreckage. They were subsequently located and rescued by a boat.
Findings
- Low visibility caused by adverse weather conditions prevented a visual approach to the runway.
- The decision to ditch was made to avoid an engine flameout due to fuel exhaustion.