On September 24, 2007, a Let L-410 (registration 9Q-CVL) operated by Free Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Malemba Nkulu, Democratic Republic of Congo during landing or approach. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft experienced an aerodynamic stall during the final approach to the runway. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A twin-engine aircraft crashed during its final approach to Malemba Nkulu, resulting in one fatality and several serious injuries.
What happened
During the final approach phase of flight to Malemba Nkulu, a twin engine aircraft experienced an aerodynamic stall. This loss of lift caused the plane to descend rapidly, ultimately impacting a cemetery situated approximately 500 metres before the start of the runway.
As a result of the impact, the aircraft was completely destroyed. The accident resulted in one fatality, involving the copilot. Additionally, the captain and four passengers sustained serious injuries. One crew member, the stewardess, was able to exit the wreckage without any injuries.
Findings
The aircraft entered a stall while attempting to land.
The crash site was located short of the runway threshold.
Probable cause
The aircraft experienced an aerodynamic stall during the final approach to the runway.