'Inadvertent extension of lift dump spoilers caused Elmina crash'

• UPDATED 4.48PM | Added more factors that contributed to the crash according to the report and its recommendations.

The aircraft crash near Bandar Elmina that killed 10 on Aug 17 last year was primarily caused by the “inadvertent extension” of the Beechcraft 390 Premier 1’s lift dump spoilers, according to the Air Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB).

In its final investigation report, the authority said the error was “most likely” committed by the flight’s second-in-command and had led to a sudden loss of lift, resulting in a “catastrophic loss of control and the subsequent crash”.

This happened when the crew was performing the Before Landing checklist, AAIB said.

Lift dump spoilers are panels on an aircraft’s wings that can be raised to disrupt airflow. It is used to reduce lift, usually to help the aircraft decelerate and land more effectively.

According to the report, investigators also found that the crew had deviated from standard operating procedures when the pilot and co-pilot swapped seats.

This saw the co-pilot, who was not rated on the 390 Premier 1 aircraft, sitting in the left-hand seat instead of the opposite side.

“This arrangement violated the Airplane Flight Manual’s seating protocol and likely impacted safety and decision-making.

“While operating with two crew members enhances safety, adherence to protocols is crucial.

“The accident resulted from a misunderstood checklist item, leading to inadvertent ground spoiler deployment. Proper briefings on critical steps and potential hazards, such as ground spoilers, are essential for maintaining safety and preventing accidents,” it stated.

Communication deficiency ‘evident’

On top of this, AAIB listed several other contributing factors, including inadequate crew training, regulatory grey areas, and deficiencies in communication and decision-making.

The deficiencies in communication and decision-making “were evident” during critical phases of the flight, it added.

In its report, the AAIB listed five safety recommendations following their investigation findings.

Among them, the authority urged flight operator Jet Valet Sdn Bhd to enhance training programmes for all of its crew members emphasising proper checklist procedures, crew resource management, and the criticality of adhering to established protocols.

The company also must ensure full compliance with civil aviation regulations, including obtaining necessary approvals for non-scheduled air services and adhering to seating protocols outlined in aircraft manuals.

“Regular audits and oversight should be conducted to identify and rectify any regulatory compliance gaps,” AAIB said.

“Jet Valet should review and update operational procedures to include clear warnings and briefings on critical systems, such as the lift dump system, to ensure all crew members are fully aware of associated risks and procedures for safe operation,” it added.

On top of this, AAIB called upon the Civil Aviation Authority to review the current regulatory framework “to provide an appropriate level of oversight of foreign aircraft operation in Malaysia by foreign-licensed aircrew to ensure safe operation.”

The 2.50pm incident on Aug 17, 2023, saw 10 people killed when the light aircraft, operated by Jet Valet, crashed onto the Guthrie Highway near Bandar Elmina.

The victims comprised six passengers and two crew members of the plane, as well as a motorcyclist and a motorist who were passing by the area.

Pahang state executive councillor Johari Harun was among those killed.

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