What happened
During a flight operating from Beni to Goma, a four-engine airplane was transporting 59 South African troops and eight crew members belonging to the 28th Squadron. The mission was being conducted on behalf of MONUSCO. As the aircraft was performing its approach and landing, the area was experiencing heavy rainfall.
Upon touchdown on the runway, the aircraft veered toward the left side of the strip. The movement caused the plane to exit the paved surface and come to a stop in a nearby grassy area. During the excursion, the left wing of the aircraft was broken into two pieces, and the number one engine caught fire.
Despite the structural damage and the fire, all 67 occupants managed to evacuate the aircraft without any injuries. The fire was suppressed shortly after the incident. While there were no casualties, the aircraft sustained damage that appeared to be beyond repair.
Findings
- The incident occurred during the landing phase of flight.
- Heavy rainfall was present during the approach and touchdown.
- The aircraft exited the runway to the left following contact with the ground.