Tragedy struck the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Saturday when an Antonov An-2R aircraft operated by Air Kasaï crashed near Batshepo, close to Kisangani. All seven occupants on board were killed, including a Congolese army officer, his wife, and their bodyguard.
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According to the Permanent Bureau of Air Accident Investigations (BPEA), the aircraft was flying from Lubutu to Kisangani when it went down in a remote area. Rescue teams dispatched to the scene confirmed there were no survivors.
Passengers Onboard
The flight carried:
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A Congolese army officer and his wife
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Their bodyguard
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Two Ukrainian pilots
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A flight engineer
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One additional passenger
The victims’ identities are yet to be fully disclosed pending official announcements to the families. However, the presence of a senior military officer has heightened the significance of this national tragedy.
Authorities have launched a full investigation into the cause of the crash. A combined team from the judicial police and air accident bodies has been deployed to the site to gather evidence and determine what led to the disaster. While mechanical failure is suspected, no official cause has yet been established.
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The deaths of the officer and his wife have deeply shaken the Congolese military community. Analysts say this loss highlights the urgent need for improved aviation safety standards in the country, where domestic air travel has faced recurring safety concerns.
Air Kasaï has not yet issued a full statement but is expected to cooperate fully with investigators.
This crash is the latest in a series of aviation tragedies in the DRC, a nation with one of the most challenging air safety records in Africa. Many carriers in the country remain banned from operating in European airspace due to safety concerns.
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The DRC government is expected to announce an official day of mourning, while families and colleagues of the victims await the repatriation of remains.
This story is developing, and updates will follow as more details emerge.
