12 FEARED DEAD IN KWALE PLANE CRASH

The aircraft, registered as 5Y-CCA, was en route from Diani to Kichwa Tembo in the Maasai Mara when it went down around 5:30 a.m. local time.

The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) confirmed the tragic incident, stating that the plane was carrying tourists bound for the Maasai Mara, a popular game reserve destination.

“Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) wishes to confirm that an aircraft registration number 5Y-CCA, on its way from Diani to Kichwa Tembo crashed at 0530Z. The aircraft had 12 persons on board. Government agencies are already on site to establish the cause of the accident and its impact,” read part of the statement.

Upon crashing, the aircraft burst into flames, as witnessed by responders and news crews who arrived at the scene.

Rescue operations commenced immediately, but heavy rains and difficult terrain hampered the efforts to reach survivors. As of the latest updates, none of the 12 passengers have been rescued, and all are feared dead.

Government agencies and emergency teams were dispatched to investigate the crash site and establish the cause of the accident.

The KCAA is leading the investigation, with initial indications suggesting that bad weather conditions may have contributed, though the official cause remains undetermined.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community and the tourism industry, casting a somber mood as authorities continue their response and support affected families.

This heartbreaking event has also raised concerns over aviation safety protocols for small aircraft in the region, prompting calls for thorough reviews and improved safety measures.

More information from official investigations and rescue reports is awaited as Kenya mourns the loss of lives in this tragic accident.