Tracep Congo Aviation plane found after crash; one pilot survives

A cargo plane operated by Tracep Congo Aviation, which disappeared on Friday during a flight between Beni and Kachungu, has been located crashed in the Walikale territory. The aircraft, an LET L-410, was carrying two crew members and nearly 2 tons of merchandise.

According to reports, the plane's commander issued a distress call minutes after departing from Mavivi airport in Beni, citing engine failure in one of its two engines. He attempted to reroute to the Walikale aerodrome, but all radio contact was lost thereafter.

Search operations were initiated immediately, involving ground reconnaissance teams. On Sunday afternoon, the co-pilot was found alive near the crash site in Buruko. However, the commander did not survive the accident.

The exact circumstances leading to the crash are still under investigation. The recovery of the aircraft and the survival of one crew member provide crucial, albeit tragic, details into the final moments of the flight.