The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) confirmed the incident in a statement, saying 12 people were onboard the aircraft. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the crash.
Witnesses from the nearby village told Biiso FM they heard a loud explosion followed by thick smoke rising from the hills.
“We heard a heavy bang, like something bursting in the air. When we rushed to the scene, the plane was already burning. What we found were only remains — it was a terrible sight,” one witness recounted.
Emergency responders and security personnel have since cordoned off the crash site as recovery efforts continue.
Airline Responds
In a statement shared with the Biiso FM, Mombasa Air Safari said it was working closely with aviation authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
“We are cooperating fully with the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority and will issue updates as more information becomes available,” the airline said.
Destination: Maasai Mara
The ill-fated flight was headed to Maasai Mara National Reserve, one of Africa’s top wildlife destinations famous for its annual wildebeest migration from Tanzania’s Serengeti.
The reserve attracts thousands of international visitors every year, and light aircraft flights from coastal towns like Mombasa and Diani are common for tourists heading to the Mara.
Investigations Underway
Officials from the Kenya Airports Authority, Civil Aviation, and Kwale County emergency teams are leading the investigation. The wreckage remains under heavy guard as aviation experts examine possible mechanical or weather-related causes.
Local authorities have called for calm as the identification of victims continues.
“We urge the public to avoid speculation and allow investigators to carry out their work. We will provide full details once families have been notified,” Commissioner Orinde said.
Biiso FM will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as new information emerges.
