What happened
At 0425 GMT, a flight departing from Hong Kong-Kai Tak Airport for Jakarta began its journey with 11 passengers and 8 crew members. The flight proceeded normally for roughly five hours while cruising at 18,000 feet over the ocean. During this period, an explosion occurred within the aircraft, followed by smoke entering the cabin via the ventilation ducts. A fire was identified on the starboard wing, positioned behind the number three engine nacelle.
The crew initiated an emergency descent to ditch the plane in the sea and transmitted distress calls. Efforts were made to combat the flames, including feathering the third engine, but the fire intensified. This led to a total loss of hydraulic systems and subsequent electrical failure. As the aircraft descended, heavy smoke filled the cockpit, making visibility nearly impossible. The aircraft struck the water on its starboard wing tip, causing the nose to submerge immediately. The accident resulted in 16 fatalities (all passengers and five crew members), with only 3 survivors. The aircraft was completely destroyed.
Findings
The investigation determined that a timed explosive device had been placed inside the starboard wheel well. This detonation punctured the fuel tank of the third engine, triggering an uncontrollable fire.