NAIROBI, Kenya (FN) — Eleven people were killed Tuesday when a light aircraft crashed in southern Kenya while en route to the Maasai Mara National Reserve, authorities said.
The plane, operated by Mombasa Air Safari, went down shortly after takeoff from Diani Beach, a coastal resort town in Kwale County. The crash occurred around 5:30 a.m. local time, according to the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority.
Officials said all 11 people on board died in the crash. The victims included eight Hungarian nationals, two Germans, and one Kenyan pilot. No survivors were reported.
The aircraft was headed to the Kichwa Tembo airstrip, a gateway to the Maasai Mara, one of Africa’s most popular wildlife destinations. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, though officials noted heavy rainfall in the area at the time.
Emergency responders and aviation investigators were dispatched to the crash site to recover remains and examine the wreckage. Authorities said the aircraft was a Cessna Caravan, commonly used for regional tourism flights.
Mombasa Air Safari confirmed the fatalities and said it was working with local and international agencies to support the victims’ families. “We are deeply saddened by this tragedy and extend our heartfelt condolences,” the airline said in a statement.
Kenya’s President William Ruto expressed sorrow over the loss of life, calling the crash “a devastating blow to families and to our tourism sector.” In a statement, he said, “We mourn with the nations affected and pledge full cooperation in the investigation.”
Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen also offered condolences and said the ministry would conduct a full safety review of domestic aviation operations. “We must ensure that our skies remain safe for all who travel,” he said.
The Maasai Mara, known for its annual wildebeest migration and big game safaris, attracts thousands of tourists each year. Flights to the reserve are frequent, often operated by small aircraft from coastal and urban hubs.
Tuesday’s crash is one of the deadliest aviation incidents in Kenya in recent years. Authorities said updates would be provided as the investigation progresses.
