Kwale plane crash probe to last 30 days as recovery and investigation efforts intensify
Aircraft Accident Investigation Department Director and Chief Investigator Fredrick Kabunge said mapping of the crash site is ongoing.
Probe into the Kwale plane crash that killed 11 people in Matuga Sub-County is expected to last up to 30 days, amid ongoing efforts to retrieve body parts and collect evidence from the wreckage.
Speaking on Wednesday, after visiting the crash site at Tsimba Golini, Aviation Principal Secretary Teresia Mbaika said several remains have been recovered, but more work is needed to secure all evidence and complete the investigation.
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“Since the accident occurred, a team from the Air Accident Investigation Department was deployed here to begin investigations, and they are doing their work in line with Annexe 13 of the International Civil Aviation Convention,” Mbaika said.
She assured the public that the government is committed to delivering a conclusive and transparent report on the tragedy, adding that Kenya is collaborating with both local and international aviation agencies to ensure accurate information is obtained and shared.
“We want to assure the public that the safety of our passengers is our top priority,” she said, describing the crash as unexpected and deeply unfortunate.
“The government is determined to get to the bottom of the matter and know exactly what might have caused this tragic incident.”
Mbaika said a team from the Kwale County Government will join national investigators and assist with logistics, including the use of excavators to expedite the retrieval of body parts for DNA analysis and further investigations.
The PS also confirmed that the Kenyan government has contacted the families of the victims, most of whom were from Germany and Hungary, and is working closely with their respective governments, which are expected to join the probe.
“On behalf of myself and the Government of Kenya, I extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends who lost their loved ones,” she said.
Aircraft Accident Investigation Department Director and Chief Investigator Fredrick Kabunge said mapping of the crash site is ongoing.
“The team aims to thoroughly comb the area in line with the provisions of Annexe 13, ensuring no evidence is overlooked,” he said.
Kabunge added that Kenya has reached out to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and the aircraft’s state of manufacture, which will work closely with local authorities as required under international aviation law.
Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) Director General Emile Arao confirmed that the aircraft, registration number 5Y-CCA, carrying tourists, was en route from Diani to Kichwa Tembo in Maasai Mara before crashing on Tuesday morning.
Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir confirmed that all 11 occupants on board the Mombasa Air Safari aircraft suffered fatal injuries. He said investigators from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Department (AAID) have been deployed to the site to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Mombasa Air Safari stated that preliminary investigations indicate 10 passengers were on board: eight Hungarians, two Germans, along with the Kenyan pilot.
“Sadly, there are no survivors. Our hearts and prayers are with all those affected by this tragic event,” the company said.
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