Aircraft accident during approach to Mutsamudu Airport

1 fatality • Mutsamudu, Comoros Islands • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed in a wooded area near Mutsamudu-Ouani Airport following a lightning strike that caused critical instrument failure during a go-around attempt.

What happened

During an approach to Mutsamudu-Ouani Airport, the flight crew encountered severe weather characterized by heavy rainfall and thunderstorm activity. To allow for weather conditions to improve, the crew entered a holding pattern approximately 30 km from the destination.

Shortly after beginning the descent toward the airport, the aircraft was struck by lightning while at an altitude of 2,500 feet. In response to the strike and the ongoing weather, the crew attempted to execute a go-around procedure. However, the lightning strike caused a partial failure of the aircraft's electrical systems, specifically resulting in the loss of both artificial horizons and gyro compasses. This loss of critical flight instrumentation led to a loss of control. The aircraft subsequently impacted a wooded area located a few kilometers from the airport. The accident resulted in one fatality and 15 injuries among the occupants.

Findings

  • The aircraft experienced a lightning strike during the approach phase.
  • The strike triggered a partial electrical system failure.
  • The failure of the gyro compasses and artificial horizons contributed to the loss of aircraft control.

Probable cause

A lightning strike during the approach caused a partial electrical failure and loss of critical flight instruments, leading to a loss of control during a go-around.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2002-12-27 Let L-410 accident near Mutsamudu, Comoros Islands?

An aircraft crashed in a wooded area near Mutsamudu-Ouani Airport following a lightning strike that caused critical instrument failure during a go-around attempt.

Were there any fatalities in the 2002-12-27 Let L-410 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2002-12-27 involved a Let L-410, registration 9XR-RB, operated by Ocean Airlines (Rwanda), at Mutsamudu, Comoros Islands.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A lightning strike during the approach caused a partial electrical failure and loss of critical flight instruments, leading to a loss of control during a go-around.

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