On May 5, 2005, an Antonov AN-26 (registration EX-26060) operated by Kisangani Airlift was involved in an aviation accident near Kisangani, Democratic Republic of Congo in flight. 10 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft crashed during an attempted return to the airport following the onset of technical malfunctions. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A twin-engine cargo flight returning to Kisangani crashed in a wooded area following reports of technical difficulties, resulting in multiple fatalities.
What happened
A cargo operation departing from Kisangani-Bangoka Airport for Isiro ended in a fatal accident during its return attempt. The flight, which was transporting a shipment of soap, was carrying a total of eleven people, consisting of four crew members and seven passengers. Approximately thirty minutes after the initial departure, the flight crew notified air traffic control of mechanical issues and decided to abort the mission to return to the origin airport.
During the descent toward Kisangani, the twin engine aircraft went down in a forested region situated roughly 28 km north of the airfield. The impact caused the plane to catch fire upon hitting the ground. The accident resulted in 10 fatalities and one passenger who sustained serious injuries.
Findings
The crew reported technical problems prior to the descent.
The aircraft crashed in a wooded area during the approach phase.
Probable cause
The aircraft crashed during an attempted return to the airport following the onset of technical malfunctions.