What happened
A cargo mission operating from Bukavu-Kavumu Airport ended in an accident during its arrival at Shabunda Airport. The flight, which was scheduled to last approximately 40 minutes, was transporting 1,500 kilograms of various goods. While the aircraft was on final approach at an altitude of roughly 300 feet, the right engine experienced a loss of power.
Following the engine failure, the crew attempted to perform an emergency landing. However, the aircraft entered a stall and struck a grove of palm trees located approximately 3.7 km before reaching the runway. The impact resulted in the destruction of the twin-engine aircraft. Both pilots sustained serious injuries during the crash.
Findings
Investigations into the accident revealed that the loss of power in the right engine led to a decrease in airspeed, which subsequently triggered an aerodynamic stall. While investigators could not identify the specific reason for the engine's failure due to the extensive damage sustained by the airframe, it was noted that the low altitude at which the stall occurred prevented the crew from successfully executing a recovery maneuver.