Accident
Shortly after departure from Kinshasa-N’Djili Airport, during the initial climb, a propeller blade separated from engine number 3. The detached blade struck engine number 4, leading to severe vibrations. The aircraft became unstable, lost speed and altitude, and subsequently crashed in the Kinkole area, approximately 8 kilometers northeast of the airport.
Casualties
Four passengers suffered injuries, including a four-year-old girl. Twenty other occupants were killed in the accident.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be the loss of a propeller blade and subsequent loss of control during the initial climb.