A chartered jet carrying a senior Congolese official and 17 other people skidded off the runway and caught fire during an official trip on Monday, Nov. 17.
The aircraft was transporting Democratic Republic of the Congo Mines Minister Louis Watum Kabamba, 63, and a delegation of officials to visit the site of a deadly bridge collapse at the Kalando mine, according to the Associated Press, citing government sources.
The bridge collapse had earlier killed at least 32 people after the structure gave way under overcrowded conditions.
The jet incident occurred at Kolwezi Airport in the south of the country, the plane’s operator, Airjet Angola, said in a statement on Facebook.
“Airjet informs, with a deep sense of responsibility, that on Nov. 17, one of our aircraft (EMB-145) was involved in an incident in the city of Kolwezi,” the translated statement said. “We would like to reassure everyone by confirming that there were no casualties.”
“All crew and passengers are safe, which is always the most important thing for us. Despite this, the aircraft was considered a total loss,” the company added. “We are collaborating closely with the aeronautical authorities in the investigation of the incident, following all international safety protocols.”
Isaac Nyembo, the minister’s communications advisor, said, per the AP, that “the aircraft was flying from the capital, Kinshasa, when it ran off the runway during landing at Kolwezi airport in Lualaba province.”
Footage shared by Newsflare via the AP showed thick black smoke pouring from the plane as it came to rest off the side of the runway, with its tail section engulfed in flames.
Airjet Angola noted that, despite the loss of the aircraft, “our activities continue as normal, maintaining the highest standards of safety and excellence that always guide our work.”
“We sincerely appreciate everyone’s understanding, support, and trust during this delicate time. As soon as we have confirmed and consolidated information within the scope of the investigation, we will provide further clarifications to the public and our partners,” the company said.
