A tragic plane crash occurred in the Democratic Republic of Congo on Friday, September 25, 2026, claiming the lives of over 10 people. The Let L-410 UVP Turbolet, a twin-engine aircraft commonly used for regional passenger and utility flights, crashed while attempting to land in Kenge, the capital of Kwango Province. The aircraft experienced difficulties during the landing process, leading to the fatal crash.
The plane burst into flames after hitting a residential compound, with several passengers believed to have been burned to death. The Vice Governor of Kwango, Remy Saki, reported that the pilot's body was discovered outside the wreckage, suggesting he may have attempted to jump out. Fortunately, no one in the residential compound was injured despite the impact and subsequent fire.
According to reports, high-ranking army officials of the Les Forces armées de la république démocratique du Congo (FARDC), the DRC armed forces, were among those killed in the crash. However, details about the operator of the aircraft, its flight origin, and destination were not immediately available. The number of people aboard the aircraft was also not clear, with authorities confirming that more than 10 people had been killed.
The aircraft had circled over Kenge several times as the crew searched for a suitable place to land before eventually crashing. Saki stated that the aircraft encountered problems as it approached the city, leading to the fatal crash. An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash is expected to be conducted, with Saki calling for an expert investigation to establish what went wrong.
The crash has raised concerns over aviation safety in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where difficult terrain and limited infrastructure can pose challenges to air operations. The latest incident adds to a growing list of aviation accidents in the country, highlighting the need for improved safety measures. Provincial authorities have yet to release a full passenger manifest or provide a final death toll.
Emergency responders and investigators are continuing their work at the crash site, with further details expected to be released as the investigation progresses. The victims included passengers who were trapped inside the aircraft after it caught fire, with several military personnel also among those aboard. Authorities have confirmed that the aircraft was on a domestic flight.
The DR Congo government and aviation authorities face mounting pressure to address concerns over aviation safety and ensure that measures are in place to prevent such tragedies in the future. The investigation into the crash is expected to examine the aircraft's condition, the circumstances surrounding its approach to Kenge, and the actions of the crew.
Key points
- Over 10 people killed in DR Congo plane crash
- Plane crashed into residential compound in Kenge
- Investigation into crash to examine aircraft condition and crew actions
