Home Aircraft Accidents Air Kasai Antonov An-26B Runway Excursion at Kongolo

Air Kasai Antonov An-26B Runway Excursion at Kongolo

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Accident Overview

• Date: January 21st, 2025

• Aircraft: Antonov An-26B

• Registration: 9S-AYN

• Operator: Air Kasai

• Route: Goma to Kongolo (DR Congo)

• Location: Kongolo Airstrip, Democratic Republic of Congo

• Event: Runway excursion following right-hand main gear collapse

• Injuries: None reported

Summary of Events

An Air Kasai Antonov An-26B, operating a flight from Goma to Kongolo, experienced a right-hand main landing gear collapse upon landing at Kongolo Airstrip. The gear failure caused the aircraft to veer off the runway, resulting in a runway excursion and the right-hand engine (AI-24VT) catching fire after coming to rest on soft ground. Emergency services were not reported as responding immediately, but no injuries to crew or passengers have been reported.

Key Findings

1. Landing Incident:

• The right-hand main landing gear collapsed upon touchdown or during the landing roll.

• The runway excursion occurred as a direct result of the gear collapse.

2. Engine Fire:

• The right-hand engine ignited after the aircraft came to a stop.

3. No Casualties:

• All occupants safely evacuated without injury, demonstrating an effective emergency response from the crew.

4. Aircraft Condition:

• The aircraft suffered significant structural damage, with one engine severely impacted by fire and potential damage to the airframe from the runway excursion.

Preliminary Analysis

The exact cause of the landing gear failure is yet to be determined. Possible contributing factors could include:

• Mechanical Failure:

• Age-related fatigue or poor maintenance of the landing gear assembly.

• Operational or Environmental Conditions:

• The condition of the runway at Kongolo may have contributed to additional stress on the landing gear.

• Landing technique or approach stability could also play a role.

• Engine Fire Cause:

• The fire in the right-hand engine may have been a result of fuel leakage or damage sustained during the excursion.

Recommendations

1. Investigations:

• The Congolese Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) should conduct a thorough investigation into the gear failure and engine fire.

• Aircraft maintenance records must be reviewed to assess the condition and service history of the landing gear.

2. Runway Assessments:

• Evaluate the surface and structural conditions at Kongolo Airstrip to determine if it contributed to the incident.

3. Operator Safety Procedures:

• Air Kasai should enhance crew training for emergency response and review maintenance schedules for aging aircraft in its fleet.

Safety Insights

This accident highlights the importance of:

• Proactive Maintenance: Ensuring all critical components, such as landing gear, are regularly inspected and maintained to avoid in-flight or landing failures.

• Emergency Preparedness: The successful evacuation of all occupants underscores the value of well-trained crews in emergency situations.

• Runway Infrastructure: Safe operations also depend on well-maintained runways, particularly in remote regions with challenging conditions.

Conclusion

While no injuries occurred, the runway excursion and subsequent engine fire demonstrate the need for diligent maintenance, runway condition monitoring, and operational preparedness. A full investigation by local aviation authorities will provide further insights into preventing similar incidents in the future.

Disclaimer

This report is based on publicly available information as of January 21st, 2025. For copyright concerns, contact takedown@cockpitking.com.

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