Aircraft Bursts Into Flames After Runway Incident
DR Congo’s Mines Minister Louis Watum Kabamba and his delegation survived a dangerous aircraft accident on Monday in Kolwezi. Their plane veered off the runway during landing and soon erupted into flames. The incident occurred at Kolwezi Airport in Lualaba province while the minister was traveling with officials and staff members.
According to the minister’s communications advisor, Isaac Nyembo, the aircraft had flown from Kinshasa earlier that day. He said the plane ran off the runway during landing, causing panic among passengers. Moments later, the aircraft caught fire, forcing authorities to initiate an urgent evacuation.
All Passengers Evacuated Before Aircraft Engulfed
Officials confirmed that all 20 passengers onboard were evacuated safely. However, luggage stored in the rear section suffered damage due to the fire. Footage from the scene showed the tail and rear half of the Embraer ERJ 145LR engulfed in intense flames. Thick black smoke rose into the sky as firefighters rushed to the site.
Emergency crews used water hoses to extinguish the burning jet. They also helped passengers escape the wreckage and move away from danger. Reports indicate that passengers seated in the front section exited quickly using the aircraft stairs. Several passengers ran across the tarmac to avoid the spreading flames.
Airjet Angola Operated Aircraft; Inquiry Begins
Authorities said the chartered aircraft was operated by Airjet Angola. Initial assessments suggest the aircraft overshot runway 29 at around 11am, which triggered the accident. However, investigators have not determined the exact cause. Officials confirmed that no injuries or fatalities occurred. A full inquiry is now underway to assess mechanical issues, crew actions, and runway conditions.
Minister Kabamba, 63, had been traveling with his team to Kalondo mine. They planned to assess the aftermath of a deadly collapse at a semi-industrial copper site. The collapse killed 32 workers on Saturday, prompting national concern and demands for stricter mining oversight.
Mine Collapse Linked to Panic Triggered by Gunfire
Officials stated that soldiers stationed at the mine reportedly fired shots during an incident, causing panic among workers. That panic allegedly triggered the collapse, which buried dozens of miners inside the site. Authorities continue investigating the mine disaster while coordinating rescue and recovery efforts.
Minister Kabamba’s narrow escape has intensified scrutiny of aviation safety and mine regulations across the region.
