THERE was no evidence of incapacitation or physiological factors that affected the flight crew performance in the August 17 aircraft crash near Bandar Elmina, Shah Alam, the Transport Ministry (MOT) said. 

In its preliminary report on the crash, MOT also said the pilot in command was licensed and qualified for the flight in accordance with regulations. 

“The aircraft had a valid certificate of airworthiness and had been maintained in compliance with the regulations. 

“The incident happened in day time with reported clear visibility and fine meteorological conditions,” MOT posted on its website. 

On August 17, a private plane crashed in Bandar Elmina, killing 10 people – two crew members, six passengers, a motorcyclist and a motorist.

Among the dead was Pahang executive councillor Johari Harun. 

MOT said the crash was not survivable owing to the magnitude of the deceleration force and the fire afterwards. 

It said additional findings, causes and contributing factors, along with safety recommendations, will be included in the final report.

MOT said the report contains statement of facts and preliminary findings that have been determined up to the time of publication.

“This preliminary report should be considered tentative, and may be changed or corrected if additional information and evidence becomes available.

“The final report will be completed by August next year at the latest in accordance with International Civil Aviation Organization Annex 13, which allocates a period of 12 months from the crash to complete the document,” it said in a statement. 

MOT also added that initial analysis of the recovered cockpit voice recorder has provided critical leads to uncovering the cause.

This, it said, was with a focus on the aircraft flight control systems.

“Results from the pending inspection and examination of the related aircraft parts and components at the United States National Transportation Safety Board and original equipment manufacturer laboratories are necessary to provide collaborative and/or conclusive evidence in establishing the cause of the crash.” – September 15, 2023.