Flight History
The accident flight, operated from Maalifushi water aerodrome (MLF) to Velana International Airport (VIA), was the first flight of the day after the aircraft overnighted at MLF. The crew accepted the aircraft with no known defects after completing the preflight check. No defects were observed during the flight from MLF to VIA; all was uneventful until touchdown at VIA water aerodrome.
Both crew members reported for duty at VIA on the previous day, 13 February 2021, and departed on their first flight at 1325 hours. The operational flight plan for 13 February scheduled four flights, followed by a single flight on 14 February after a layover at MLF.
Accident Sequence
The accident occurred at 0732 hours on 14 February 2021 during landing on the North-Right (NR) water runway at Velana International Airport. The aircraft was observed to touch the water runway on the right-hand float, which dug into the water, followed by a steep, right turn. Before the aircraft could recover from the abnormal turn, it came to a halt inverted. The buoyancy of the floats kept the aircraft afloat.
Injuries
All six passengers and two pilots evacuated safely without injuries. The cabin crew sustained minor injuries.
Damage
The aircraft was substantially damaged during the accident.
Aircraft Information
The aircraft was a de Havilland Canada DHC-6-300, manufacturer's serial number 617, registered in the Republic of Maldives as 8Q-RAE. The registered owner was Manta Aviation Pvt Ltd., and the aircraft was owned by Kenn Borek Air Ltd. The operator was Manta Air (Manta Aviation Pvt Ltd., Air Operator Certificate No. 014).
Personnel Information
The flight crew consisted of a Pilot-in-Command and a Co-pilot, plus one cabin crew member. Details of their qualifications and experience are not included in this report excerpt.
Investigation
The accident was reported to the Accident Investigation Coordinating Committee (AICC) at 0756 hours. Investigators from both the Maldives Civil Aviation Authority (MCAA) and AICC arrived at the scene and commenced the investigation.