4 fatalities

2001-08-23: PZL-Mielec AN-28 (3C-LLA) — Gran Propeller - Victoria Air — Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo

Bukavu, Democratic Republic of CongoFlight

On August 23, 2001, a PZL-Mielec AN-28 (registration 3C-LLA) operated by Gran Propeller - Victoria Air was involved in an aviation accident near Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo in flight. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure for unknown reasons. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781202508Data APIEditorial standards

A cargo aircraft diverted to Bukavu following an engine failure stalled and crashed in a wooded area, killing two pilots and two passengers and injuring seven others.

Flight and Engine Failure

Approximately eight minutes after departing from Kama en route to Kampene, one of the aircraft's engines failed. The crew decided to divert to Bukavu-Kavumu Airport, which was located about 225 kilometers from Kama.

Diversion and Crash

While descending towards Bukavu-Kavumu Airport, the aircraft stalled and crashed into a wooded area roughly 20 kilometers from the airport. Weather conditions at both Kama and Bukavu were reported as good at the time of the accident.

Occupants and Cargo

The accident resulted in the deaths of both pilots and two passengers, while seven other occupants sustained injuries, some critical. The aircraft was reportedly overloaded and was carrying arms and ammunition.

Investigation

The reasons behind the crew's decision to divert to Bukavu instead of returning to Kama after the initial engine failure remain unknown. Investigators believe that the second engine may have also failed as the aircraft approached Bukavu, leading to the stall. The official probable cause was determined to be an engine failure for unknown reasons.