What happened
On July 14, 2008, a De Havilland DHC-6-300 Twin Otter, registration 8Q-MAS, was conducting a scheduled passenger flight from Male International Airport to the Adaaran Club Bathala area. The flight was carrying 14 passengers and 3 crew members. At the time of the approach, the weather conditions were characterized by high winds of 20 to 25 knots and rough sea states.
As the aircraft approached the floating platform in the lagoon, the pilot performed an orbit to inspect the water surface. During the landing attempt, the aircraft touched down while attempting to find a stable position among the waves. The aircraft subsequently struck a large swell, which caused it to veer left and become airborne again. The pilot initiated a go-around procedure; however, during the climb, the aircraft's right float collided with the bow of a speed boat that was moored to a nearby buoy.
The impact was severe enough to detach the right engine, propeller, and the right float from the aircraft. Despite the damage, the pilot managed to stabilize the remaining aircraft on the left float. Due to strong currents, the aircraft eventually drifted into shallow water and sank. All 17 occupants escaped the aircraft without no fatalities.
The investigation
The AICC investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance records, the weather conditions, and the operational environment. Investigators confirmed that the crew was competent, well-rested, and that the aircraft was within weight limits and airworthy at the time of departure. The investigation also looked into the presence of the speed boat, noting that the vessel was moored at a buoy frequently used by the operator for overnight aircraft parking.
Physical evidence, including metal fragments from the float found embedded in the speed boat and debris found underwater, confirmed the point of impact. The investigation also noted that the speed boat's captain was unaware of any specific restrictions regarding mooring at that location, as no official safety zones had been established by the Civil Aviation Department.
Findings
- The aircraft became airborne unexpectedly after hitting a large wave during the landing sequence.
- The crew's decision to attempt a landing in rough sea conditions without sufficient consideration for a potential rejected landing or nearby obstacles was a primary factor.
- A speed boat was moored in close proximity to the landing area, creating a significant hazard during an aborted approach.
- There were no established regulatory guidelines or published safety zones by the Civil and Aviation Department to restrict boat movements near the floating platform.
- There were no visible warning signs on the platform to alert the public that the area was reserved for seaplane operations.