Runway overrun and subsequent ravine crash at Boma Airfield

5 fatalities • Boma, Democratic Republic of Congo • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft overran the runway at Boma Airfield, veered into a ravine, and caught fire, resulting in five fatalities.

What happened

During an arrival at Boma Airfield, the aircraft failed to stop within the designated runway boundaries. The aircraft crossed the threshold of runway 21, which has a total length of 1,082 metres, and traveled approximately 45 metres past the threshold. As the aircraft continued along the runway, the crew initiated braking procedures, which included the shutdown of both the number 1 and number 3 engines. After traveling an additional 400 to 500 metres, the pilot attempted a maneuver to the right to prevent the aircraft from exiting the runway perimeter.

This maneuver occurred roughly 200 metres before the end of the runway. However, the aircraft subsequently descended an embankment and entered an 8-metre deep ravine. Upon impact with the terrain, the aircraft caught fire. The accident resulted in five fatalities and four injuries. The aircraft was completely destroyed during the event.

Findings

  • The aircraft exited the runway environment and entered a steep ravine.
  • The decision to veer right to avoid an overrun led the aircraft into an embankment.

Probable cause

The aircraft veered off the runway into a ravine while attempting to avoid an overrun.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1994-07-17 Yakovlev Yak-40 accident near Boma, Democratic Republic of Congo?

An aircraft overran the runway at Boma Airfield, veered into a ravine, and caught fire, resulting in five fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1994-07-17 Yakovlev Yak-40 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1994-07-17 involved a Yakovlev Yak-40, registration RA-87256, operated by Impulse-Aero, at Boma, Democratic Republic of Congo.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft veered off the runway into a ravine while attempting to avoid an overrun.

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