On January 16, 1997, a Boeing 707 (registration P4-OOO) operated by First International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Kananga, Democratic Republic of Congo during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The collapse of the right main landing gear upon touchdown. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
An aircraft experienced a landing gear failure upon touchdown at Kananga Airport, resulting in a runway excursion and subsequent fire.
What happened
During the landing phase at Kananga Airport, the right main gear of the aircraft failed immediately following touchdown. This mechanical failure caused the aircraft to veer off the runway surface. As the plane exited the paved area, it came to a stop and caught fire.
Despite the intensity of the post-crash flames, all five occupants were able to evacuate the wreckage safely. There were no reported injuries among the crew or passengers. The impact and subsequent fire resulted in the aircraft being declared a total loss, as the structural damage was beyond repair.
Findings
Official investigations into the incident concluded that the primary factor was the collapse of the right main landing gear during the landing sequence. The specific underlying reason for the component failure remains undetermined.
Probable cause
The collapse of the right main landing gear upon touchdown.
