On March 13, 1995, a Lockheed L-188 Electra (registration 9Q-CDG) operated by Blue Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Kinshasa-N'Djili, Democratic Republic of Congo during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck power lines due to an insufficient approach speed and an excessively low altitude during the final approach. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A four-engine aircraft crashed in a field near Kinshasa-N'Djili Airport after striking power lines during its final approach.
What happened
During the final approach phase to Kinshasa-N'Djili Airport, a four-engine aircraft experienced a critical loss of altitude and airspeed. While descending toward the runway, the aircraft struck overhead power cables. This impact led to an aerodynamic stall, causing the plane to crash into an adjacent open field.
Despite the destruction of the aircraft, there were zero fatalities as all occupants on board were successfully rescued from the wreckage.
Findings
Investigations into the incident indicate that the aircraft was flying at an insufficient speed and was positioned too low relative to the terrain and obstacles. The primary factor in the accident was the collision with power cables during the descent.
Probable cause
The aircraft struck power lines due to an insufficient approach speed and an excessively low altitude during the final approach.