Runway excursion resulting in ground fatality

1 fatality • Boende, Democratic Republic of Congo • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft overran the runway after an improper approach configuration, leading to a collision with an embankment and the death of a person on the ground.

What happened

During the landing phase, the aircraft entered an incorrect approach configuration. This error led to the plane touching down significantly further down the runway than intended. Due to the late touchdown, the crew was unable to decelerate sufficiently before reaching the end of the paved surface. The aircraft subsequently overran the runway and struck an embankment situated approximately 100 meters beyond the threshold.

While all 38 occupants on board survived the impact, they sustained various injuries. The aircraft itself was declared a total loss due to damage exceeding repairable limits. Tragically, the accident resulted in one fatality involving a young boy who was located on the ground at the time of the collision.

Findings

Official investigations concluded that the primary driver of the accident was an improper approach configuration by the flight crew. Several contributing elements were identified during the inquiry:

  • Failure to adhere to established approach checklists and standard operating procedures
  • Inadequate preparation for the flight
  • Deficiencies in coordination between the crew members

Probable cause

The accident was caused by the crew's failure to maintain the correct approach configuration and follow standard procedures.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1975-01-07 Fokker F27 Friendship accident near Boende, Democratic Republic of Congo?

An aircraft overran the runway after an improper approach configuration, leading to a collision with an embankment and the death of a person on the ground.

Were there any fatalities in the 1975-01-07 Fokker F27 Friendship accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1975-01-07 involved a Fokker F27 Friendship, registration 9Q-CLM, operated by Air Zaïre, at Boende, Democratic Republic of Congo.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by the crew's failure to maintain the correct approach configuration and follow standard procedures.

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