Crash of a De Havilland DH.114 Heron 2 in Vanua Balavu: 1 killed
Date & Time:
Sep 11, 1986 at 1145 LT
Operator:
Registration:
DQ-FEC
Survivors:
Yes
Schedule:
Vanua Balavu - Suva-Nausori
MSN:
14078
YOM:
1955
Crew on board:
1
Crew fatalities:
Pax on board:
2
Pax fatalities:
Other fatalities:
Total fatalities:
1
Circumstances:
Takeoff from Vanua Balavu Airport was initiated in poor weather conditions. During the takeoff roll, the airplane deviated to the left then veered off runway and eventually collided with trees. A passenger was killed while both other occupants were injured.
Probable cause:
It was determined that the pilot lost control of the aircraft during the takeoff roll in poor weather conditions (low visibility) as he was partially incapacitated due to medication.
