On April 2, 2002, an Antonov AN-32 (registration ER-AEQ) operated by Renan was involved in an aviation accident near Cafunfo, Angola during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Strong crosswinds during the final approach caused the aircraft to fly too low and strike the ground short of the runway. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
An aircraft experienced a ground strike during its final approach to Cafunfo Airport due to heavy crosswinds, resulting in structural damage but no injuries.
What happened
During the approach phase to Cafunfo Airport, the aircraft encountered significant crosswind conditions. As the flight was on short final, the aircraft descended below the required altitude and made contact with the ground before reaching the runway threshold.
The force of the impact caused the undercarriage to be ripped from the airframe. Following the initial strike, the aircraft slid along its fuselage for several dozen meters. During this sequence, the aircraft suffered further structural failure, losing both its left wing and the empennage before finally coming to a stop.
Findings
The primary factor in the accident was the presence of strong crosswinds during the approach.
All 15 occupants on board were able to evacuate the wreckage without sustaining any injuries.
Probable cause
Strong crosswinds during the final approach caused the aircraft to fly too low and strike the ground short of the runway.