20 fatalities

2010-08-25: Let L-410 (9Q-CCN) — Filair — Bandundu, Democratic Republic of Congo

Bandundu, Democratic Republic of CongoLanding (descent or approach)

On August 25, 2010, a Let L-410 (registration 9Q-CCN) operated by Filair was involved in an aviation accident near Bandundu, Democratic Republic of Congo during landing or approach. 20 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of control on final approach due to the movement of several passengers in the cabin, panicked by the presence of a crocodile. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781195910Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into a house on final approach to Bandundu Airport after a crocodile escaped from a passenger's bag, causing panic and a shift in center of gravity.

Overview

On final approach to Bandundu Airport, a twin-engine aircraft nosed down and crashed into an earth-made house. The impact forces destroyed the aircraft. All occupants except one passenger lost their lives.

Incident Sequence

According to the sole survivor, a passenger had illegally brought a crocodile on board in a bag, intending to sell it as bush meat at a local market. During the final approach, the animal escaped from the bag and began moving through the cabin. The stewardess and several passengers panicked, leaving their seats and rushing toward the front of the cabin near the cockpit. This sudden movement caused the aircraft's center of gravity to shift too far forward. Consequently, the crew lost control, and the aircraft nosed down, crashing into the house.

Aftermath

The crocodile was found unharmed after the crash. However, local residents subsequently killed it.

Probable cause

Loss of control on final approach due to the movement of several passengers in the cabin, panicked by the presence of a crocodile.