What happened
Following its departure from Bunia Airport, the aircraft encountered significant mechanical difficulties. The captain notified air traffic control of malfunctions involving the engines and further reported that a fire had broken out within the cabin area.
Shortly after these communications, the four-engine aircraft lost stability and went out of control. The plane eventually impacted the ground approximately 40 km southwest of Bunia, within the Irumu region. The accident resulted in 23 fatalities, with no survivors reported among the occupants.
Findings
- The crew reported active engine problems during the initial climb phase.
- An onboard fire was confirmed by the pilot prior to the loss of control.