Single-engine aircraft crash near Mendi

1 fatality • Mendi, Papua New Guinea • Landing (descent or approach)

A solo cargo flight flying from Minj to Mendi ended in a fatal mountain collision during severe weather conditions.

What happened

A single-engine aircraft was conducting a scheduled cargo operation, transporting cement bags, between Minj and Mendi. During the final approach into Mendi, the flight encountered increasingly poor meteorological conditions. As the pilot navigated through a valley characterized by active thunderstorms, the aircraft type struck a mountain slope. The impact caused the plane to disintegrate upon hitting the terrain.

Findings

The investigation indicates that the aircraft was operating in an area of intense thunderstorm activity at the time of the accident. The collision with the mountainside occurred while the pilot was attempting to navigate through deteriorating weather. There was one fatality resulting from the crash, involving the pilot who was the only person on board.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck a mountain slope while navigating through thunderstorm activity and deteriorating weather conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1958-07-08 Noorduyn Norseman accident near Mendi, Papua New Guinea?

A solo cargo flight flying from Minj to Mendi ended in a fatal mountain collision during severe weather conditions.

Were there any fatalities in the 1958-07-08 Noorduyn Norseman accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1958-07-08 involved a Noorduyn Norseman, registration VH-GSA, operated by Gibbes Sepik Airways, at Mendi, Papua New Guinea.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck a mountain slope while navigating through thunderstorm activity and deteriorating weather conditions.

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