On August 31, 2007, a De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter (registration ZS-NJK) operated by Air Serv International was involved in an aviation accident near Punia, Democratic Republic of Congo in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft collided with power lines during low-altitude flight. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A ferry flight traveling from Punia to Goma crashed into the Lowa River after striking power lines during the cruise phase.
What happened
During a ferry flight originating from Punia and destined for Goma, an aircraft struck electrical power lines approximately ten minutes after takeoff. The incident occurred while the aircraft was maintaining a relatively low altitude during the cruise phase of the flight.
Following the impact with the lines, the crew attempted to perform an emergency landing. However, the aircraft ultimately crashed into the Lowa River, situated roughly 30 km northeast of Punia. The impact caused the aircraft to come to rest in an inverted position. While the aircraft sustained damage beyond repair, both pilots managed to exit the wreckage and sustained only minor injuries.
Findings
The aircraft was operating in a low-altitude cruise configuration when it encountered the power lines.
Probable cause
The aircraft collided with power lines during low-altitude flight.