Runway excursion involving cargo aircraft at Lubumbashi-Luano Airport

No fatalities • Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo • Landing (descent or approach)

A cargo flight operating from Kinshasa experienced a runway excursion and nose gear collapse during the landing roll at Lubumbashi-Luano Airport.

What happened

A cargo operation traveling from Kinshasa-N'Djili Airport to Lubumbashi-Luano Airport resulted in an aircraft accident during the landing phase. The flight, which included five crew members and one passenger, proceeded normally until the aircraft touched down on runway 07.

As the pilot initiated braking procedures, the aircraft type began to deviate toward the left side of the runway while traveling at approximately 80 knots. This deviation caused the plane to exit the paved surface and enter soft terrain. During this excursion, the nose gear of the aircraft collapsed. The movement continued for roughly 200 meters before the plane came to a stop in a grassy area situated along the left shoulder of the runway.

All six occupants were able to evacuate the aircraft without injury. While there were no fatalities, the aircraft sustained damage that was determined to be beyond repair.

Findings

  • The aircraft deviated to the left during the braking phase of the landing roll.
  • Contact with soft ground following the runway excursion led to the collapse of the nose landing gear.

Probable cause

The aircraft veered off the runway during braking, leading to a nose gear collapse upon encountering soft ground.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2018-03-04 Boeing 737-300 accident near Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo?

A cargo flight operating from Kinshasa experienced a runway excursion and nose gear collapse during the landing roll at Lubumbashi-Luano Airport.

Were there any fatalities in the 2018-03-04 Boeing 737-300 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2018-03-04 involved a Boeing 737-300, registration 9S-ASG, operated by Serve Air, at Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft veered off the runway during braking, leading to a nose gear collapse upon encountering soft ground.

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