On September 5, 2005, an Antonov AN-26 (registration ER-AZT) operated by Kavatshi Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Isiro, Democratic Republic of Congo during landing or approach. 11 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck an obstacle during approach due to low altitude and degraded visibility caused by fog. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
An aircraft crashed short of the runway at Isiro Airport during its final approach, resulting in the deaths of all on board.
What happened
During the final approach phase of the flight to Isiro Airport, the crew encountered significantly reduced visibility caused by heavy fog. While attempting to land, the aircraft type struck a palm tree located approximately 1,500 metres before reaching runway 31. The impact caused the aircraft to crash.
There were 11 fatalities recorded in the accident, with no survivors among the occupants. The incident occurred in the vicinity of the airport during the landing sequence.
Findings
The primary contributing factor was poor visibility due to fog during the approach.
The flight path was too low, leading to the collision with vegetation (a palm tree) prior to reaching the runway threshold.
Probable cause
The aircraft struck an obstacle during approach due to low altitude and degraded visibility caused by fog.