What happened
On the morning of 14 February 2021, a Viking Air DHC-6-300, registration 8Q-RAE, was conducting a scheduled charter flight from Maalifushi water aerodrome to Velana International Airport. The flight, operated by Manta Air, was being conducted under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) and was the first sector of the day following an overnight shutdown at the departure point.
As the aircraft approached the North-Right water runway, the flight crew initiated the landing sequence. Upon touchdown, the aircraft experienced a bounce and subsequently banked heavily to the right. This movement caused the right wing to strike the water surface. The aircraft was unable to recover from this bank, causing it to veer sharply and execute a U-turn before coming to rest in an upside-down position.
The investigation
The investigation, conducted by the Maldives AICC, examined the wreckage, flight records, and crew statements. Investigators assessed the extensive damage to the airframe, noting that the left wing sustained severe structural failure, including a broken main attachment and a detached rear spar. The impact also caused significant damage to the floats, engine components, and the fuselage skin.
Review of the personnel records confirmed that both the pilot and co-pilot held valid commercial licenses and were current on their proficiency checks and medical certifications. The investigation also noted that the aircraft was configured for VIP transport with eight seats and was operating within its weight limits at the time of the accident.
Findings
- The aircraft sustained substantial damage, including the destruction of the left wing root, broken engine control cables, and severe buckling of the fuselage skin.
- The aircraft's right wing dipped into the water during the landing phase, triggering the capsize.
- The pilot-in-command noted a potential factor regarding differences in landing attitudes between larger ATR aircraft and the Twin Otter in float configuration.
- All nine occupants, including two pilots, one cabin crew, and six passengers, evacuated the aircraft safely, though the cabin crew sustained minor injuries.