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3 fatalities

Twin-Engine Aircraft Strikes Mount Nyiragongo in Poor Visibility (5Y-TWH)

Mt Nyiragongo, Democratic Republic of CongoFlight

On August 18, 2004, a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan (registration 5Y-TWH) operated by Transworld Safaris was involved in an aviation accident near Mt Nyiragongo, Democratic Republic of Congo in flight. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Controlled flight into terrain. 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.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine aircraft on a cargo flight from Goma to Walikale struck the slope of Mt Nyiragongo about 10 minutes after takeoff, while flying in limited visibility due to poor weather. The wreckage was found at 2,590 m; safe altitude was 3,400 m.

Incident Overview

A twin-engine aircraft departed Goma on a cargo flight to Walikale, carrying two passengers, one pilot, and a load of ores. Approximately 10 minutes after takeoff, while flying in limited visibility due to poor weather conditions, the aircraft struck the slope of Mount Nyiragongo, located about 15 km north of Goma Airport.

Wreckage and Location

The wreckage was found at an altitude of 2,590 metres. The minimum safe altitude for the area had been fixed at 3,400 metres.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident to be controlled flight into terrain.

Controlled flight into terrain

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Aug 2004 Cessna 208B Grand Caravan accident near Mt Nyiragongo, Democratic Republic of Congo?

A twin-engine aircraft on a cargo flight from Goma to Walikale struck the slope of Mt Nyiragongo about 10 minutes after takeoff, while flying in limited visibility due to poor weather. The wreckage was found at 2,590 m; safe altitude was 3,400 m.

Were there any fatalities in the 18 Aug 2004 Cessna 208B Grand Caravan accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Aug 2004 involved a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan, registration 5Y-TWH, operated by Transworld Safaris, at Mt Nyiragongo, Democratic Republic of Congo.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Controlled flight into terrain

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