On January 21, 2025, an Air Kasai Antonov An-26 aircraft was involved in a runway excursion accident at Kongolo Airport in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The aircraft, which was operating a domestic flight, suffered significant damage as it veered off the runway during the landing process.
The Antonov An-26, a twin-engine turboprop, is commonly used for both cargo and passenger transport, and it was carrying passengers at the time of the incident. While the details of the accident are still under investigation, initial reports indicate that the plane went off the runway, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft. Thankfully, there have been no confirmed reports of fatalities or severe injuries to the crew and passengers onboard, though some individuals were reportedly injured.
Kongolo Airport, located in the southeastern region of the DRC, has been the site of various air operations but has limited infrastructure and facilities to handle significant incidents. The authorities, including the national aviation agency, have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the runway excursion, including factors such as weather conditions, runway maintenance, and possible technical issues with the aircraft.
This incident highlights ongoing challenges in the aviation sector in the DRC, where infrastructure and safety measures are sometimes lacking, contributing to a higher risk of accidents. In recent years, the country has taken steps to improve its aviation safety standards, but incidents like this demonstrate the continued need for enhanced safety protocols and investment in aviation infrastructure.
As investigations continue, Air Kasai, a regional airline operating in the DRC, is expected to cooperate fully with authorities to determine the exact cause of the accident. The airline’s primary focus, along with aviation regulators, will be to ensure the safety and well-being of its passengers and crew in the future.