What happened
A photographic survey mission operating out of Lae was interrupted when unfavorable weather conditions prompted the crew to abort the mission and return to their base. The flight, which included a pilot, a navigator, and a photographer, contacted Lae tower approximately five minutes prior to arrival. Air traffic control provided instructions to utilize Runway 32, noting wind conditions of 15 knots from 300 degrees with gusts reaching 20 knots.
During the approach, the pilot was cleared to perform a practice asymmetric landing, though the crew was specifically cautioned about expected turbulence on final approach. Witnesses observed the aircraft type flying at an extremely low altitude while transitioning from a right-hand base leg to the final approach. At this stage, the left propeller had been feathered. As the aircraft reached roughly 300 yards from the runway threshold, observers noted a significant increase in engine power. Immediately following this power adjustment, the plane rolled toward the left and entered a diving descent in a partially inverted position, striking the water. The accident resulted in three fatalities.
Findings
- The flight was conducting a simulated single-engine approach using a feathered propeller.
- The aircraft encountered turbulence during the final approach phase.
- A sudden increase in power setting preceded the loss of control and subsequent impact.