RDPL-34144

On April 11, 2009, about 1035 coordinated universal time (UTC), a Cessna 208B, Laos registration RDPL-34144, owned by Helicopters of New Zealand, operated by Lao Air, was substantially damaged during a forced landing following a loss of engine power near Vientiane, Laos. The two pilots and 11 passengers were not injured.

Laos investigators reported that during takeoff initial climb the flight crew heard a loud bang and hissing noise from the engine followed by a loss of engine power. The pilot in command observed the engine had shut itself down and the propeller was in the feathered position immediately after the loss of power. The pilot altered course back towards the airport, and was unsuccessful at restarting the engine. Unable to make it back to the airport, the pilot prepared for an off field landing. During landing the airplane bounced twice before coming to rest.

The investigation is under the jurisdiction of the Government of Laos. This report is for information purposes only and contains only information released by the Government of Laos. Further information pertaining to this accident may be obtained from:

Ministry of Public Works and Transport

Department of Civil Aviation

Wattay International Airport, P.O. Box 119

Vientiane Lao PDR

Telephone/Fax: 512163