Maldives DHC-6-310 Twin Otter training flight accident

The Maldives Accident Investigation Coordinating Committe published a preliminary investigation report regarding the July 11, 2011 accident involving a DHC-6 Twin Otter

The float-equipped de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter sustained substantial damage in a heavy landing in Biyaadhoo Training Lagoon, Maldives. The two pilots on board were not injured. The airplane was used for an annual re-current training flight. Departure time at Malé (MLE) was 08:20 and the flight had to be back before 09:30 because both crew members were scheduled to do a commercial flight at that time.

During the training five landings and take-offs were made simulating different conditions of flight. All these landings and take-offs were made inside the lagoon except the last landing where the crew decided to land on open water outside the lagoon. The crew were simulating a tail wind/single engine landing.

As per the crew, the aircraft initial touch down was smooth. However, they stroke a wave which made the aircraft bounce foe about 20 feet. With the low power aircraft hit the water again with great impact, resulting multiple float attachments to break. Both front and main spreader bars broke and floats rose up, twisted and hitting the bottom engine cowlings. Propeller cuts were found on front of both floats. Also, the flaps as well as the flap selectors were found on the zero position.

Source: by Harro Ranter, ASN - October 16, 2011 - http://aviation-safety.ne

Photo: Maldivian Air Taxi de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter 310. Remark: 8Q-MAP (cn 571) Maldives, November 30, 2010 (Jerome Zbinden)

(16.10.2011)