Investigation Summary
The aircraft, a 20-year-old Fokker 50, was performing a domestic cargo service originating in Kananga with a stop in Lodja before proceeding to Goma. As it approached Goma International Airport at approximately 17:44 local time, the region was experiencing significant rainfall and poor visibility. Witnesses reported the aircraft appearing to struggle with the weather before it descended into a residential neighborhood, striking the roof of a house and crashing into a garden. No distress calls were recorded by air traffic control prior to the impact. While initial reports fluctuated, it was eventually confirmed that seven people perished—six crew members and one loadmaster—while three passengers were rescued from the wreckage. The pilot was identified as a Russian national, Alexander Bazhenov, while the remaining victims were Congolese citizens.
Final Conclusions
The investigation into the crash of 9Q-CBD has not resulted in a publicly accessible final report detailing the definitive sequence of events. However, the immediate aftermath saw the Congolese Ministry of Transport announce a mandatory re-certification for all airlines operating in the DRC that were currently on the European Union's list of banned carriers. The crash is widely attributed to the severe weather conditions present during the approach to Goma, though mechanical factors have not been officially ruled out by a published final authority.
Video Analysis
No video analysis linked for this case file yet.
Airframe & Maintenance
Systems & Failure Modes
Pratt & Whitney Canada PW125B
The twin turboprop engines that powered the Fokker 50; no specific mechanical failure of these units was reported prior to the crash.
Interesting Facts
- 01The aircraft was 20 years old and had previously served with AirUK, KLM uk, and KLM Cityhopper.
- 02The crash occurred during a period of heavy rain and poor visibility in Goma.
- 03No distress calls were made by the crew before the aircraft impacted the ground.
- 04Seven fatalities were recorded, including all six crew members and one passenger.
- 05The aircraft was carrying four passengers despite being operated as a cargo service.
- 06The flight originated in Kananga with an intermediate stop in Lodja.
Safety Actions & Advisories
Airline Re-certification
Following the accident, the Ministry of Transport of the DRC announced a re-certification of all airlines holding an operator's certificate in the country that were subject to an EU ban.