Aircraft accident during landing at Lubumbashi-Lueno Airport

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

A charter flight departing from Lubumbashi-Lueno Airport experienced a hard landing and subsequent loss of control, resulting in the destruction of the aircraft.

What happened

During a charter operation originating from Lubumbashi-Lueno Airport, the flight crew executed a steep approach that resulted in a heavy impact upon touchdown. Following this initial contact, the aircraft experienced a bounce, gaining an altitude of approximately 20 feet before descending for a second landing. During this subsequent phase, the aircraft became uncontrollable and drifted toward the left side of the runway.

The aircraft then struck a rocky embankment, which caused the separation of the undercarriage. The force of the impact caused the airframe to break into multiple pieces. Despite the significant damage to the plane, all five occupants managed to exit the wreckage without sustaining any injuries. The aircraft was completely destroyed during the excursion.

Findings

  • The sequence of events began with a steep approach and a hard landing.
  • The aircraft's trajectory led to a collision with terrain features off the runway.
  • The structural integrity of the aircraft was compromised by the impact with an embankment.

Probable cause

A steep approach led to a hard landing and a subsequent bounce that caused the aircraft to veer off the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2012-06-20 Grumman G-159 Gulfstream I accident near Pweto, Democratic Republic of Congo?

A charter flight departing from Lubumbashi-Lueno Airport experienced a hard landing and subsequent loss of control, resulting in the destruction of the aircraft.

Were there any fatalities in the 2012-06-20 Grumman G-159 Gulfstream I accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2012-06-20 involved a Grumman G-159 Gulfstream I, registration 9Q-CIT, operated by International Trans Air Business, at Pweto, Democratic Republic of Congo.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A steep approach led to a hard landing and a subsequent bounce that caused the aircraft to veer off the runway.

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