What happened
During preparations for departure in the harbor of Port Vila, a seaplane was engaged in taxiing maneuvers when the pilot encountered canoes crossing the intended path. In an attempt to avoid a collision with these vessels, the pilot performed an evasive maneuver that resulted in the aircraft striking submerged coral.
The impact caused a puncture in the lower portion of the fuselage, allowing water to enter the airframe. As a result of the breach, the aircraft began taking on water and eventually sank nose-first, leaving the plane partially submerged in the harbor. There were no fatalities or injuries reported during the incident, as all passengers and crew members managed to evacuate the aircraft safely.
Findings
- The primary cause of the hull breach was the contact with coral following an emergency maneuver.
- The structural integrity of the fuselage was compromised by the impact, leading to rapid flooding.
- The aircraft sustained damage so severe that it was declared a total loss.