What happened
A cargo flight operating from Pointe-Noire to Brazzaville was conducting its final approach to runway 05L when the accident occurred. The aircraft, a four-engine transport, was carrying a crew of six and one passenger, alongside a cargo load of various goods and automobiles. During the approach, the aircraft encountered heavy rain, thunderstorm activity, and restricted visibility. While descending, the crew failed to maintain the proper glide path, causing the plane to strike treetops and residential structures. The impact occurred in the La Poudrière district, approximately 900 meters before reaching the runway.
Findings
The crash resulted in the deaths of all 7 occupants on board the aircraft, as well as 25 people on the ground. Additionally, 14 injuries were reported among those on the ground. Investigations into the flight recorders were complicated by the fact that the FDR sustained significant mechanical damage due to the force of the impact. The primary factor in the accident was the uncontrolled descent below the glide path during the final approach in adverse weather conditions.