What happened
During an ILS approach toward runway 24 at Kinshasa-N'Djili Airport, the flight crew elected to perform a go-around. While operating in the airport vicinity, the pilot notified air traffic control of their intention to execute a second approach using visual methods. Due to concerns regarding low fuel reserves, the pilot opted for a shortened flight pattern.
During the subsequent landing attempt, the aircraft encountered a 6-knot tailwind, which contributed to an unstable approach. The aircraft was not correctly aligned with the runway centerline when it made a heavy impact on the left side of the strip. Following this touchdown, the aircraft lost directional control and veered off the left side of the runway. The impact caused the undercarriage to separate from the airframe. The aircraft traveled several hundred meters before catching fire. All eight occupants were successfully rescued from the wreckage, with one person sustaining minor injuries. The aircraft was a total loss due to the structural damage from the impact and the resulting post-crash fire.
Findings
- The aircraft was in an unstable approach configuration at the time of touchdown.
- A 6-knot tailwind was present during the landing phase.
- Low fuel levels necessitated a shortened approach pattern.