Poor Maintenance and Unsafe Decisions Caused Fatal Tema Microlight Crash – Investigators
Ghana’s Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau (AIB Ghana) has attributed the fatal microlight crash in Tema that killed two people to poor maintenance practices, engine failure, and unsafe operational decisions.
In its final report released on Tuesday, the Bureau said the aircraft had a documented history of engine overheating during short flights, including earlier incidents in Ho where white smoke was observed coming from the engine.
Investigators found that these critical warning signs were not adequately addressed before the aircraft was cleared for subsequent flights, describing the accident as preventable.
“The defects were not properly rectified before subsequent flights,” the report stated.
The Bureau also revealed that the pilot attempted to cool the overheating engine by pouring water on it a practice investigators described as unsafe and contrary to standard aviation procedures.
Additionally, the report noted that no flight permits had been issued for the aircraft’s movement, meaning Air Traffic Control (ATC) was not notified of its operations or known mechanical problems.
Presenting the findings, Head of Investigation Capt. Paul Fordjour said engine failure was the immediate cause of the crash, with human factors also contributing significantly.
“There was destruction due to persistent communication on the cell phone,” he noted.
The crash has raised fresh concerns about compliance with aviation maintenance standards and the effectiveness of regulatory oversight of light aircraft operations in Ghana.
Editor:
Obiri-Yeboah
