On October 2, 2006, a Nord 262 (registration 9Q-CBA) operated by Malu Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Kikwit, Democratic Republic of Congo during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft veered off the runway during touchdown amidst heavy rain conditions. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 5 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
An aircraft traveling from Kinshasa veered off the runway at Kikwit Airport during a rainy approach, resulting in significant damage but no injuries.
What happened
During a flight originating from Kinshasa, the crew initiated an approach to Kikwit Airport amidst heavy rainfall. Upon making contact with the runway, the aircraft drifted toward the left side of the strip. This deviation caused the plane to exit the paved surface and enter the surrounding vegetation. During the excursion, the left main landing gear was lost. The aircraft eventually came to a stop in a nearby area of bushes.
Findings
The incident occurred during the landing phase of flight.
Heavy rain was present during the approach and touchdown.
There were zero fatalities and zero injuries reported among the occupants.
The aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss.
Probable cause
The aircraft veered off the runway during touchdown amidst heavy rain conditions.