What happened
During a local skydiving operation in Santa Isabel, a single-engine aircraft was performing a takeoff with ten people on board, consisting of one pilot and nine skydivers. As the plane reached an altitude of approximately 150 metres, the engine suffered a loss of power. In response to the mechanical failure, the pilot initiated an immediate return to the airfield.
During the landing sequence, the aircraft struck vegetation and came to a stop. The impact caused the plane to catch fire, which ultimately resulted in the total destruction of the airframe. Despite the intensity of the fire, all 10 occupants managed to exit the aircraft without sustaining any injuries.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced a loss of engine power during the initial climb phase.