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The Maldives Transport Safety Board has launched an investigation into a Trans Maldivian Airways seaplane accident at Velana International Airport that injured a crew member, who remains in intensive care.
Mariyam Adheela
MALE’: The Maldives Transport Safety Board (MTSB) has launched an investigation into an accident involving a Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) seaplane at the Noovilu Seaplane Terminal of Velana International Airport.
In a statement, the board said the accident occurred on Wednesday afternoon as the aircraft was preparing to depart from the terminal. One crew member was injured and is receiving hospital treatment, while no other people on board were reported injured.
According to preliminary information, the accident occurred after an engine problem caused the aircraft’s propeller to accelerate unexpectedly. The aircraft reportedly tilted to one side and its wing struck the ground.
The injured crew member, who was on the wing at the time, became trapped between the aircraft and the ground and sustained serious injuries.
The crew member is currently receiving treatment in the intensive care unit at Tree Top Hospital and is on a ventilator.
Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), which operates Velana International Airport, said the incident occurred while the seaplane was taxiing.
The company’s emergency response teams immediately attended the scene following the accident.
Videos circulating on social media showed part of the aircraft submerged in the water, while passengers were evacuated using life rings.
The MTSB said further information would be shared as it becomes available during the investigation.
