Aircraft crash during approach to Banjul-Yundum Airport

9 fatalities • Banjul, Gambia • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed short of the runway at Banjul-Yundum Airport during a night approach in heavy tropical storm conditions, resulting in ten fatalities.

What happened

During a flight originating from Las Palmas, the crew initiated their descent toward Banjul-Yundum Airport. The approach took place at night under challenging meteorological conditions characterized by heavy rainfall from a tropical storm and low cloud cover, which significantly restricted visibility.

While performing the final approach, the aircraft struck the ground approximately 4,300 metres before reaching runway 32. Subsequent searches located the debris field 800 metres to the right of the runway's extended centerline. The accident resulted in nine fatalities and one serious injury among the occupants, which included several German tourists.

Findings

At the time of the accident, the flight was operating in poor visibility caused by heavy rain and low clouds associated with an active tropical storm.

Probable cause

The crash occurred during a night approach amidst heavy tropical rainfall and low visibility.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-10-10 Beechcraft 200 Super King Air accident near Banjul, Gambia?

An aircraft crashed short of the runway at Banjul-Yundum Airport during a night approach in heavy tropical storm conditions, resulting in ten fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1997-10-10 Beechcraft 200 Super King Air accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 9 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-10-10 involved a Beechcraft 200 Super King Air, registration EC-ERQ, operated by NAYSA Aerotaxis - Navegación y Servicios Aéreos Canarios, at Banjul, Gambia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crash occurred during a night approach amidst heavy tropical rainfall and low visibility.

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