Incident Overview
A twin-engine aircraft operating a scheduled passenger service from Goma International Airport to Butembo crashed shortly after takeoff on the first flight of the day. The airplane departed from runway 17 and, during initial climb, the crew contacted air traffic control requesting to return and land on runway 35. Soon after, the aircraft lost altitude and crashed into multiple houses in the Birere district, located south of the airport, and burst into flames.
Casualties and Damage
The accident resulted in the deaths of 21 occupants and six individuals on the ground. One passenger sustained serious injuries. The aircraft struck several houses in the densely populated Birere area, causing significant property damage and igniting a fire.
Air Traffic Controller Report
The air traffic controller on duty reported observing the wings of the aircraft rocking shortly after it became airborne, prior to the loss of control and subsequent crash.
Operational Context
The flight was the first service of the day for the aircraft, operating a scheduled route between Goma and Butembo. The crew's request to return to land on runway 35 suggests an issue shortly after departure, but the specific reason for the return request has not been determined from available information.