On April 16, 1969, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration 9T-PLJ) operated by WIGMO - Western International Ground Maintenance Organization was involved in an aviation accident near Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo during landing or approach. 45 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The exact cause of the accident was not determined. However, it is believed that the loss of control was the consequence of a double engine failure caused by a fuel exhaustion. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
After takeoff from Kinshasa-N'Djili Airport, the crew reported hydraulic issues and was cleared to return. While holding to reduce weight, the aircraft dove into the Congo River, killing all 45 on board.
Accident Sequence
Shortly after departing from Kinshasa-N'Djili Airport, the flight crew reported technical problems with the hydraulic systems. Air traffic control cleared the aircraft to return to the airport. In an effort to reduce the aircraft's weight, the pilot entered a holding pattern over the region. While in the holding pattern, the aircraft entered a dive and crashed into the Congo River. All 45 occupants on board were killed.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the exact cause of the accident could not be identified. However, investigators believe that the loss of control was the consequence of a double engine failure. This double engine failure was caused by fuel exhaustion.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 16 Apr 1969 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo?
After takeoff from Kinshasa-N'Djili Airport, the crew reported hydraulic issues and was cleared to return. While holding to reduce weight, the aircraft dove into the Congo River, killing all 45 on board.
Were there any fatalities in the 16 Apr 1969 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 45 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 16 Apr 1969 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration 9T-PLJ, operated by WIGMO - Western International Ground Maintenance Organization, at Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The exact cause of the accident was not determined. However, it is believed that the loss of control was the consequence of a double engine failure caused by a fuel exhaustion.
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