Authorities in Kenya are intensifying investigations into the fatal crash of a Mombasa Air Safari aircraft in Kwale County, as the process to determine the probable cause of the accident continues.
This is according to the Ministry of Transport, which released a preliminary accident investigation report on Friday, November 28, 2025.
The Cessna 208B plane, registration 5Y-CCA, crashed on October 28, 2025 in the forested hills of Tsimba Golini Ward, Matuga Sub-County, killing all 11 people on board.
The aircraft had departed from Ukunda Airport at 8:25 AM for Kichwa Tembo airstrip in Maasai Mara and lost contact with air traffic control just eight minutes later at 8:33 am.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Department (AAID) immediately dispatched investigators to the scene, where they conducted preliminary assessments and interviewed witnesses.
Early reports confirmed that the aircraft hit the terrain in a high-energy, nose-down impact, which led to a fire that destroyed the plane. While the crash has claimed all lives on board, officials emphasize that the focus now is on understanding why the accident occurred.
In line with international protocols under the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Annex 13, Kenya, as the State of Occurrence, Registry, and Operator, has informed the States of Design and Manufacture of the aircraft and its engines.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) of the United States and the Transportation Safety Board (TSB) of Canada have appointed accredited representatives to assist the AAID. Textron Aviation, the aircraft manufacturer, and Pratt & Whitney Canada, the engine maker, are also providing technical advisors for the probe.
“The Ministry remains vigilant and committed to maintaining the highest Aviation Safety in Kenya. We continue to work with all relevant agencies to uphold international standards, strengthen oversight, and protect the integrity of our Air Transport System,” said, Davis Chirchir , Cabinet Secretary for Transport.
The Ministry has released the preliminary accident report to ensure transparency, making it accessible on the AAID website.
Officials stress that the release is part of ongoing efforts to keep the public and the aviation industry informed while investigators continue their work.
“The preliminary report is part of our effort to maintain transparency and credibility,” the Ministry said.
Investigators are now meticulously analyzing flight data, environmental conditions, and eyewitness accounts to determine the factors that led to the crash. The Ministry confirmed that updates will be issued regularly as more findings emerge, reflecting Kenya’s commitment to aviation safety and international compliance
