What happened
During a cargo mission originating from Beira, an aircraft was performing a low-altitude approach toward the Vila de Sena Airstrip. Due to the presence of active combat in the surrounding region, the crew opted for a low-level approach to minimize the risk of hostile engagement. The aircraft was navigating toward a grassy landing area when it began to drift toward the right side of the approach path.
In an attempt to rectify this lateral deviation, the pilot initiated a correction maneuver. During this process, the aircraft made contact with trees, which led to an aerodynamic stall. The subsequent impact caused the aircraft to crash into the Zambelze River. The accident resulted in one fatality and the rescue of two crew members.
Findings
- The crew utilized a low approach technique to avoid potential threats from local combat activities.
- The aircraft struck trees during a corrective maneuver following a rightward drift during the final approach to the grass runway.