"Deepest condolences": KCAA issues update after tragic Samburu plane crash
This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.
- The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority confirmed a Eurocopter EC130 B4 aircraft crashed at Lolokwe Mountain in Samburu county
- Eyewitnesses reported thick black smoke and intense flames rising from the crash site shortly after the aircraft went down
- Police had not yet reached the scene or identified those on board, with reports suggesting up to seven tourists may have been on the flight
The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has confirmed that a Eurocopter EC130 B4 helicopter, registered as 5Y-GYM, crashed at Lolokwe Mountain in Samburu county on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at approximately 9.13am local time.
According to a press statement issued by KCAA's Corporate Communication Department, the aircraft was operating a flight between Loisaba and Ewasonyiro when the accident occurred.
The Authority said it is coordinating with relevant agencies and that the Ministry of Roads and Transport's Air Accident Investigation Department has assumed leadership of the investigation.
Police yet to reach crash site
Eyewitnesses at the scene described a large plume of thick black smoke and intense flames rising from the crash site shortly after the helicopter came down.
Security personnel had not yet reached the remote location at the time of reporting, leaving the full extent of the incident unconfirmed.
Police had not identified any of the occupants of the aircraft. Unconfirmed reports indicated the helicopter may have been carrying up to seven tourists, though the exact number of people on board, their identities, and their conditions remained unclear.
KCAA extends condolences
In its statement, KCAA extended its "deepest condolences to the families of the victims," the first official acknowledgement that the crash had resulted in fatalities, though the Authority stopped short of providing a confirmed death toll.
The Eurocopter EC130 B4 is a single-engine light helicopter widely used in tourism and charter operations across East Africa, particularly in game reserve and conservancy areas.
Lolokwe Mountain, also known as Ol Lolokwe, is a prominent flat-topped peak within the Samburu region and a popular destination for visitors to northern Kenya.
KCAA urged members of the public to await official updates as investigations got under way. The Authority can be reached at +254-709725000 or via email at pr@kcaa.or.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
Reporting originally appeared via TUKO. Read the full source for additional context.