What happened
A twin-engine aircraft, operating a charter service for the Mozambican firm Cornelder, was traveling from Beira to Harare with a scheduled stop in Mutare. During the approach to Mutare Airport, the aircraft was descending to an altitude of 5,200 feet. Approximately ten minutes prior to its expected arrival time, the flight encountered marginal weather conditions. During this descent, the aircraft struck obstacles and crashed into a mountain slope within the Vumba Botanical Reserve. The wreckage was located roughly 23 km southeast of the airport. While one passenger initially survived the impact, the individual later succumbed to their injuries.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating in marginal weather conditions during the descent phase.
- The crash occurred following an impact with obstacles while the crew was maneuvering through difficult visibility.