2005-09-08: De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter (9Q-CBO) — TMK Air Commuter - Société de Transports et Messageries au Kivu — Murandi, Democratic Republic of Congo
Murandi, Democratic Republic of CongoTakeoff (climb)
On September 8, 2005, a De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter (registration 9Q-CBO) operated by TMK Air Commuter - Société de Transports et Messageries au Kivu was involved in an aviation accident near Murandi, Democratic Republic of Congo during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An engine malfunction occurred shortly after takeoff, necessitating an emergency landing. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
An aircraft experienced an engine malfunction shortly after departing Goma Airport, resulting in an emergency landing in a banana plantation.
What happened
Shortly after departing from Goma Airport, the crew of the aircraft identified a mechanical issue involving an engine. Approximately two minutes into the flight, the crew initiated an emergency descent to find a suitable landing site. The aircraft eventually reached a banana plantation located within the Nyiragongo territory, near Murandi.
Upon impact with the plantation, the aircraft sustained significant structural damage, including the loss of its right wing. The airframe was declared a total loss following the incident. During the landing, three passengers sustained injuries, while the remaining 17 occupants on board were able to exit the wreckage without harm.
Findings
The primary factor leading to the emergency landing was an engine problem reported by the crew during the initial climb phase.
Probable cause
An engine malfunction occurred shortly after takeoff, necessitating an emergency landing.