Plane Carrying Congo Minister and 20 Others Bursts Into Flames After Skidding Off Runway

Kinshasa, November 2025:
A government aircraft carrying a Congo minister and 20 other passengers reportedly burst into flames after it skidded off the runway during landing. The incident triggered urgent rescue operations as airport authorities and emergency responders rushed to control the fire and evacuate passengers.

Initial reports indicate that the aircraft veered off the runway due to a suspected technical malfunction or loss of control, though officials have not yet confirmed the exact cause.

Passengers Evacuated Amid Fire Outbreak

Eyewitnesses at the scene described the moment the aircraft slid off the tarmac, collided with the ground embankment, and caught fire near its wing section.

• Airport firefighters responded immediately.
• Several passengers were evacuated from the burning aircraft.
• The minister onboard was safely removed, though the extent of injuries among passengers remains under assessment.

Authorities have maintained that detailed information on casualties or injuries will be shared once the rescue operation concludes.

Authorities Launch Investigation

Congo’s aviation authorities have initiated a formal inquiry to determine:

• What caused the aircraft to skid off the runway
• Whether mechanical failure, pilot error, or weather conditions contributed
• How the fire spread so quickly after impact

The investigation will also examine whether the aircraft underwent proper maintenance checks prior to takeoff.

Emergency Response and Safety Measures

The airport temporarily suspended operations to support the rescue effort and clear debris from the runway. Medical teams, firefighters, and security forces remain deployed at the site.

Officials have assured the public that:

• A detailed incident report will be released soon
• Families of passengers are being notified
• Additional safety checks will be conducted for government aircraft