Light aircraft carrying 10 people crash-lands in Kanyemba, Mbire district (SEE PICS)

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Mbire – Ten people are counting their blessings after a light aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing at Kanyemba Airstrip in Mbire District on Wednesday evening. The incident, which occurred as the plane was en route from Harare to Kafuko Safaris in Mozambique, resulted in no injuries, a remarkable outcome considering the circumstances.

The Beech 200 Super King Air, registered as ZS-TAE, was carrying tourists destined for a game park in Mozambique when it encountered difficulties upon landing at the airstrip. According to witnesses, the aircraft overshot the runway, eventually coming to a stop in the middle of tall grass.

Tengo Mugonapanja, the local village head, was among those who witnessed the aftermath of the incident. Speaking to ZBC News, he described the scene as both tense and miraculous. “The plane was heading towards Kafuko Safaris in Mozambique from Harare when it crash-landed at the airstrip in our area,” Mugonapanja said. “All ten people on board escaped without any injuries. It was a miracle. We were all shocked but relieved.”

While initial reports suggested that some passengers may have sustained injuries, local authorities have since clarified that everyone on board escaped unharmed. The pilot, though visibly shaken by the experience, did not require hospitalisation.

The aircraft, however, was not so fortunate. The Beech 200 Super King Air sustained physical damage during the emergency landing, with reports indicating that the landing gear came off after heavy impact. The aircraft will require some repairs before it can be cleared for flight again.

The incident has prompted an investigation into the cause of the emergency landing. As of Thursday morning, the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ) had not issued a formal statement on the matter. However, it is understood that mechanical failure, adverse weather conditions, and pilot error are all being considered as potential factors.

The pilot did not shed any light on the crash.

Kanyemba Airstrip, located near the border with Mozambique, is a relatively small facility primarily used for private and safari-related flights. Local officials have indicated that aviation experts will be dispatched to the site to conduct a thorough assessment of the incident.

The escape of all ten people on board without injury is being hailed as a remarkable stroke of luck. The incident serves as a reminder of the inherent risks associated with air travel, even on seemingly routine flights. It also highlights the importance of well-maintained aircraft and skilled pilots, as well as the crucial role played by local communities in responding to emergencies.

As the investigation into the cause of the emergency landing gets underway, questions are being raised about the safety of Kanyemba Airstrip and the adequacy of its facilities. While the airstrip is primarily used for private and safari-related flights, concerns have been expressed about the length of the runway and the potential for overshooting, particularly in challenging weather conditions.

The incident is likely to prompt a review of safety procedures and protocols at Kanyemba Airstrip, with a view to minimising the risk of similar incidents occurring in the future. The focus will be on ensuring that the airstrip meets the required safety standards and that pilots are adequately trained to handle emergency situations.

ZS-TAE - Beechcraft 200 King Air - TAB Air Charters

For now, however, the overriding sentiment is one of relief that all ten people on board the ill-fated flight escaped without injury. The incident serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of remaining calm and composed in the face of adversity.




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