Accident
While en route to Goma, the aircraft was cruising at flight level 190 (FL190). Air traffic control cleared the crew to descend successively to FL150, FL110, and then FL085 in preparation for an approach to runway 36. However, the crew initiated a premature descent. At an altitude of 8,800 feet, the aircraft struck the slope of a mountain located 40 km southwest of Goma. The impact caused the aircraft to disintegrate, and all 37 occupants were killed.
Investigation
Investigators determined that the crew failed to follow the published approach procedures. The minimum altitude of 8,500 feet could be reached only after completing the last turn, which should occur between 19 and 25 km from the runway threshold. The premature descent placed the aircraft in a position where it could not maintain terrain clearance.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause was stated as: For unknown reasons, the crew failed to follow the published approach procedures and initiated the descent prematurely, causing the aircraft to strike the ground.