Overview
• Operator: Eagle Air on behalf of Light Services Ltd
• Aircraft Model: Beechcraft 1900
• Registration: 5X-RHB
• Flight Route: Unity Oilfield Airfield to Juba, South Sudan
• Date: 29 January 2025
• Occupants: 21 (19 passengers, 2 crew)
• Fatalities: 20
• Survivors: 1
Accident Summary
A Beechcraft 1900 operated by Eagle Air on behalf of Light Services Ltd crashed approximately 10 minutes after departure from Unity Oilfield Airfield, located north of Bentiu, South Sudan. The aircraft experienced a sudden loss of altitude and impacted the ground, resulting in 20 fatalities.
A single survivor was rescued and transported to a hospital with severe injuries. Initial reports indicate structural failure as a potential cause, with eyewitness accounts suggesting a wing separation prior to impact.
Sequence of Events
1. Departure
• The aircraft took off from Unity Oilfield Airfield, a dirt strip measuring approximately 2,150 meters (7,100 feet) in length.
• The weather conditions at the time of departure have not been confirmed.
2. In-Flight Structural Failure
• About 10 minutes into the flight, witnesses on the ground observed the aircraft descending uncontrollably.
• A wing was reportedly seen detaching from the fuselage, though this has not been officially confirmed.
3. Impact and Casualties
• The aircraft impacted the ground in a remote area.
• Three individuals were pulled from the wreckage alive, but two succumbed to injuries in the hospital.
• The remaining 18 occupants were declared deceased at the crash site.
4. Emergency Response
• Local authorities and emergency personnel responded to the crash site.
• The wreckage was located near Bentiu, with fire and debris spread over a large area.
• Recovery operations commenced immediately.
Investigation and Authorities’ Statements
• Juba Airport confirmed the accident, stating that a small aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff.
• The South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority (SSCAA) has opened an investigation into the cause of the accident.
• Ground observers reported a possible wing detachment, suggesting potential structural failure or aerodynamic overload.
• The passengers were reported to be oil workers, including two Chinese nationals and one Indian national.
Aircraft and Safety Considerations
Beechcraft 1900 Overview
• The Beechcraft 1900 is a twin-turboprop aircraft commonly used for regional and charter operations.
• It is known for its reliability in remote locations but requires strict maintenance protocols to ensure airworthiness.
Possible Contributing Factors
• Structural failure: If a wing separation did occur, it could point to fatigue cracks, corrosion, or poor maintenance.
• Weight and balance issues: An improperly loaded aircraft could contribute to unusual flight characteristics.
• Weather conditions: High winds or turbulence may have played a role, although no weather-related issues have been confirmed.
Ongoing Investigation and Next Steps
• The South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority (SSCAA) and relevant aviation bodies are conducting a full investigation.
• The wreckage will be examined to determine whether structural failure occurred before impact.
• Investigators will analyze:
• Flight data (if available)
• Maintenance records of the aircraft
• Witness reports and wreckage analysis
• Survivor testimony
Aircraft Status
• The aircraft was completely destroyed in the crash.
• No further flights are expected under this registration.
Disclaimer
This report is based on available information as of 30 January 2025. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the completeness of the details cannot be guaranteed. If you are the rightful owner of any referenced materials and wish them removed, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.
