DRC Mining Minister Unharmed as Charter Jet Burns After Runway Excursion in Kolwezi

Overview

• The Embraer ERJ‑145 operated by Airjet Angola veered off the runway during landing at Kolwezi Airport and came to rest on its belly as the tail area ignited.
• About 20 people, including Minister Louis Watum Kabamba and 17 staff, evacuated safely with no injuries reported.
• The charter flight departed Kinshasa bound for Kolwezi, where the minister planned to follow up on a mine accident reported to have killed more than 40 workers on November 15.
• Videos shared on social media show passengers and crew exiting the aircraft moments before flames spread, with posts citing registration D2‑AJB.
• The Congolese Office of Investigations of Aviation Accidents launched a probe, the cause has not been determined, and detailed statements from the airline and government were not yet issued.