Aircraft crash landing at Gemena Airport

No fatalities • Gemena, Democratic Republic of Congo • Landing (descent or approach)

A four-engine aircraft experienced a loss of altitude during its final approach to runway 29, resulting in a crash landing short of the threshold.

What happened

During the final approach phase toward runway 29 at Gemena Airport, a four-engine airplane experienced a sudden reduction in altitude. As the aircraft was completing its last segment of flight, it struck the ground approximately 100 meters before reaching the runway threshold. Following the impact, the aircraft became uncontrollable and underwent a crash landing.

Despite the severity of the impact, there were zero fatalities reported among those on board. However, the structural damage sustained during the event was so significant that the aircraft was declared a total loss and rendered beyond repair.

Findings

Official investigations into the accident concluded that the primary reason for the descent was the impact of atmospheric conditions. The aircraft was caught by downdrafts while on short final, which caused it to lose necessary height before reaching the runway.

Probable cause

The aircraft lost altitude during its final approach after being impacted by downdrafts.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1974-04-07 Douglas DC-4 accident near Gemena, Democratic Republic of Congo?

A four-engine aircraft experienced a loss of altitude during its final approach to runway 29, resulting in a crash landing short of the threshold.

Were there any fatalities in the 1974-04-07 Douglas DC-4 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1974-04-07 involved a Douglas DC-4, registration 9Q-CBH, operated by Air Zaïre, at Gemena, Democratic Republic of Congo.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft lost altitude during its final approach after being impacted by downdrafts.

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