On Thursday 9 August 2007 at around 12 h 00 local time, the Air Moorea DHC6-300 Twin Otter, registered F-OIQI, which was operating the Moorea-Papeete route, crashed into the sea shortly after take-off. According to the first information gathered, the nineteen passengers and the pilot did not survive the accident.

The BEA has launched a technical investigation and is sending a four-man team to Polynesia. On the spot, a Field Investigator has been nominated to undertake the initial investigative actions in coordination with the judicial authorities.

The BEA recommends avoiding drawing any hasty conclusions on investigations that are under way. Experience has shown that such conclusions are often unfounded. In accordance with the provisions of the French Civil Aviation Code, the BEA will communicate any additional information as the technical investigation progresses.