Occurrence
On 6 October 2023, at about 16:43 local time, a Viking Air DHC-6-200 floatplane (registration 8Q-RAL) operated by Manta Air experienced a loss of engine power on the right engine while on approach to Velana International Airport (MLE) water aerodrome. The aircraft had departed from Soneva Jani water aerodrome on a charter service (NR2205) with 5 passengers, 2 flight crew, and 1 cabin crew.
Sequence of Events
The flight was uneventful until reaching approximately 350 feet altitude on final approach. The pilot-in-command (PIC) called for full flaps, maximum propeller rpm, and landing checks. Immediately after the flaps were fully extended and the propeller levers were selected fully forward, the aircraft reacted violently, yawing to the right with a right bank. The crew reported initially losing control of the aircraft.
Flight radar and ATC communication recordings indicate the aircraft was at about 350 feet and 80 knots at 16:43:43. Four seconds later, the aircraft had turned right by about 30 degrees and descended to 300 feet at a rate of 750 feet per minute, with a speed of 66 knots. The descent rate changed to 500 feet per minute over the next nine seconds, but speed decreased to 52 knots. After veering right, the aircraft made a slow left turn before impacting the water.
The PIC stated that he was unable to glance at flight or engine instruments due to the critically low altitude. When control was regained, the aircraft had veered almost 60 degrees to the right. The crew feared an imminent crash. The PIC attempted to add power on the left engine but found the lever stuck; he felt both power levers were stuck.
Landing and Aftermath
Realizing the aircraft was heading toward painted tanks on the south end of Hulhumale Island, and hearing the stall warning horn, the PIC attempted to pitch down to gain airspeed. He instructed the first officer to declare MAYDAY. The PIC aimed to gain maximum airspeed and flare to touch down on water rather than land. Concerned the float could detach, he attempted to land on both floats to share the impact load. The aircraft had a hard landing on water, bounced, and remained upright on both floats. After stabilizing, the crew found the left power lever had come free and regained partial control. The right engine was shut down via the fuel lever. The aircraft taxied with assistance from a rescue boat and docked at the fixed platform. Passengers disembarked through the main airstair door.
Injuries and Damage
The table in the report indicates no fatal, serious, or minor injuries to any of the 8 persons on board (2 flight crew, 1 cabin crew, 5 passengers). No damage to the aircraft was reported. No other damage was noted.