On February 15, 2007, a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan (registration 5Y-BNN) operated by Stellavia was involved in an aviation accident near Walikale, Democratic Republic of Congo during landing or approach. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft disappeared during a go-around procedure following multiple failed landing attempts in worsening weather. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A cargo flight transporting food supplies disappeared during an approach to Walikale following deteriorating weather conditions.
What happened
A cargo flight originating from Goma, carrying a shipment of food, vanished during its approach to Walikale. While the mission was underway, the pilot encountered worsening meteorological conditions near the destination. Records indicate that the pilot made three separate attempts to land the aircraft; however, after the third attempt, a go-around was performed.
Shortly after the decision to abort the landing, the aircraft disappeared from radar or communication. Despite the initiation of search and rescue operations, no wreckage or debris was located. Following several days of active searching, the mission was officially suspended as no trace of the aircraft or the pilot could be identified.
Findings
The flight was operating in deteriorating weather conditions during the approach phase.
The disappearance occurred following a series of unsuccessful landing attempts.
Probable cause
The aircraft disappeared during a go-around procedure following multiple failed landing attempts in worsening weather.