Investigation Summary
The flight was an unscheduled domestic operation departing from Kamina Airport, a facility featuring a 1,470-meter dirt runway. Shortly after lifting off, the aircraft failed to maintain altitude and came down in a nearby swamp. The primary factor identified in the crash was the gross exceeding of the aircraft's weight and balance limits. While the Let L-410 is designed to carry a maximum of 17 to 19 occupants depending on configuration, this specific flight was carrying 21 people. The excess weight, combined with the performance demands of a takeoff from a high-elevation dirt strip (3,474 ft AMSL), likely prevented the aircraft from climbing away safely.
Final Conclusions
The accident was caused by the operation of the aircraft beyond its certified weight limits. The presence of 21 occupants on an airframe rated for a maximum of 17 led to a loss of performance during the critical takeoff phase, resulting in a forced landing in unsuitable terrain.
Video Analysis
No video analysis linked for this case file yet.
Systems & Failure Modes
Weight and Balance
The aircraft exceeded its maximum takeoff weight and occupant limit, which negatively impacts climb gradient and stall speeds.
Powerplant
The Let L-410 is powered by two Walter M601 turboprop engines, which were unable to provide sufficient thrust to keep the overloaded airframe airborne.
Interesting Facts
- 01The aircraft was carrying 21 people, four more than its maximum specified capacity of 17.
- 02The sole fatality was Mbuyu Mibanga, a member of the National Assembly of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
- 03Kamina Airport is located at an elevation of 3,474 feet and utilizes a dirt runway.
- 04Two World Health Organization doctors were among the injured survivors.
- 05Some sources attribute the operation to Karibu Airways, though Free Airlines is the primary operator cited in accident records.
Safety Actions & Advisories
Operational Oversight
The accident highlighted ongoing safety concerns regarding overloaded domestic flights in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, contributing to the continued inclusion of many Congolese carriers on the EU Air Safety List.