3 fatalities

2004-08-18: Cessna 208B Grand Caravan (5Y-TWH) — Transworld Safaris — Mt Nyiragongo, Democratic Republic of Congo

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)Primary reportUpdated 1781200179Data 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.