Jet carrying Congo’s minister bursts into flames after runway skid in Kolwezi
A private jet carrying Congo’s Mines Minister skidded off the runway at Kolwezi Airport and burst into flames, forcing passengers to jump from the aircraft as it burned. No major injuries were reported, and investigations are underway.
- Private jet carrying DR Congo’s Mines Minister overshoots runway and catches fire during landing in Kolwezi.
- Passengers escape by leaping from the wing as the rear of the aircraft goes up in flames; no major injuries reported.
- Minister was en route to visit the site of a fatal mining disaster that killed over 30 workers.
KOLWEZI: A private jet carrying senior government officials from the Democratic Republic of Congo burst into flames after skidding off the runway during landing at Kolwezi Airport on 17 November 2025 around 11am.
The aircraft, a chartered Embraer operated by Airjet Angola, was transporting Mines Minister Louis Watum Kabamba and his delegation when it failed to stop upon touchdown, sliding off Runway 29 before its tail section ignited.
Passengers Forced to Jump From Burning Jet
Footage captured towering plumes of black smoke rising from the wreckage as rescue teams raced to the scene.
While stairs opened at the front of the aircraft, officials seated in the middle and rear—where flames were spreading rapidly—were forced to climb out of a centre exit.
Video shows several passengers jumping onto the wing and falling to the ground below while clutching their belongings as fire crews fought to contain the blaze.
Chaos Inside the Jet During Landing
Additional footage filmed from inside the plane shows panic as the jet scraped across the ground during landing.
Passengers stood up moments before the tail ignited, while others braced themselves as the aircraft skidded.
Minister Kabamba’s communications adviser later confirmed that the jet “ran off the runway during landing.”
No Fatalities Reported Despite Intense Fire
Remarkably, no deaths or major injuries were reported.
The aircraft, however, was largely destroyed by the fire.
Authorities have opened an investigation into what caused the failed landing.
Officials Were En Route to Mining Disaster Site
Minister Kabamba, 63, had been travelling to the Kalondo Mine following a separate tragedy the previous weekend.
A bridge near a mine shaft collapsed on Saturday, killing more than 30 semi-industrial copper miners.
The collapse was reportedly triggered by panic after gunfire from military personnel guarding the site.
Human rights groups have since called for an independent investigation.
Kabamba, who assumed office in August, was among the first officials scheduled to visit the affected community.
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