The Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau (AIB Ghana) has concluded that poor maintenance practices and engine failure caused the Tema microlight aircraft crash that killed two people.

According to the Bureau’s final report, the aircraft had experienced several engine overheating incidents during previous short flights and landings in Ho. Investigators noted that white smoke was repeatedly seen coming from the engine, but the mechanical problems were not adequately resolved before the aircraft continued operating.

The report also revealed that the pilot attempted to cool the overheating engine by pouring water on it, a method investigators described as unsafe and inappropriate.

Additionally, the Bureau found that the aircraft operated without the required flight permits, meaning Air Traffic Control (ATC) had no knowledge of its movements or its history of mechanical issues.

Presenting the findings on Tuesday, May 26, Head of Investigation Captain Paul Fordjour stated that the investigation pointed to engine failure as the probable cause of the crash, while pilot actions during the flight also played a contributing role.

He further cited human-factor concerns, including persistent communication on a mobile phone during the flight, which investigators believe may have affected operations.