On December 14, 1965, a Pilatus PC-6 (Porter & Turbo Porter) (registration VH-PNF) operated by Papuan Air Transport - Patair was involved in an aviation accident near Terapo, Papua New Guinea during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft entered a stall condition during the early stages of flight following departure from the airstrip. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 5 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A cargo flight experienced an aerodynamic stall and subsequent crash shortly after departing from Terapo Airstrip, resulting in one serious injury.
What happened
During a local cargo operation, an aircraft departed from Terapo Airstrip before experiencing a loss of airspeed. The aircraft entered a stall state during the initial climb phase of the flight. This aerodynamic failure led to a crash in the immediate vicinity of the departure site.
As a result of the impact, the pilot sustained serious injuries. One passenger was also on board the aircraft and suffered slight injuries during the accident. No other fatalities were reported from this event.
Findings
The primary factor leading to the accident was an aerodynamic stall occurring shortly after takeoff.
Probable cause
The aircraft entered a stall condition during the early stages of flight following departure from the airstrip.
What happened in the 14 Dec 1965 Pilatus PC-6 (Porter & Turbo Porter) accident near Terapo, Papua New Guinea?
A cargo flight experienced an aerodynamic stall and subsequent crash shortly after departing from Terapo Airstrip, resulting in one serious injury.
Were there any fatalities in the 14 Dec 1965 Pilatus PC-6 (Porter & Turbo Porter) accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 14 Dec 1965 involved a Pilatus PC-6 (Porter & Turbo Porter), registration VH-PNF, operated by Papuan Air Transport - Patair, at Terapo, Papua New Guinea.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The aircraft entered a stall condition during the early stages of flight following departure from the airstrip.
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