Retired pilot who flew presidents Moi and Kibaki dies in Mombasa Road crash
Ngunyo, who was married to nominated Senator Betty Batuli Montet, had an illustrious career as a pilot.
Retired pilot James Gitahi Ngunyo, who flew former presidents Daniel Arap Moi and Mwai Kibaki, died Thursday evening in a road crash at the Kyumvi junction on Mombasa Road.
Witnesses said Ngunyo, who was driving alone, attempted to overtake a lorry but miscalculated the distance of an oncoming truck, leading to a head-on collision. The impact caused his vehicle to burst into flames, trapping him inside. He was burned beyond recognition.
Authorities confirmed the veteran pilot was the only occupant of the vehicle at the time of the crash.
The driver of the lorry that collided with Ngunyo’s car sustained a fractured left leg and was taken to the hospital.
Ngunyo, who was married to nominated Senator Betty Batuli Montet, had an illustrious career as a pilot.
He flew presidents Moi and Kibaki, among other high-profile figures, before retiring from the Kenya Air Force in 2010.
After retirement, he continued flying commercial aircraft at Wilson Airport.
The vehicle that Ngunyo was driving on March 6, 2025 before the head-on collision with a truck on Mombasa Road.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi mourned him as a distinguished pilot who made significant contributions to Kenya’s aviation sector.
“I’m deeply saddened to learn of the untimely demise of Col (Rtd) James Gitahi Nguyo, the beloved husband of Senator Betty Montet, in a road accident at the Machakos junction on Mombasa Road last evening. Col Nguyo, a retired army man, was a distinguished pilot who flew Presidents Daniel Arap Moi and Mwai Kibaki and other leading personalities during his career,” Kingi said.
“As a commercial pilot, Col Gitahi has helped redefine air transport in our country, ensuring safe skies through the mentorship of upcoming pilots. I pass my sincere condolences to Senator Montet and her family for this immense loss and pray for God's grace and comfort upon them at this most painful and difficult moment. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” Kingi stated.
The accident happened around 5:30 pm.
Police said investigations into the incident are ongoing.
Ngunyo’s body was taken to a Machakos mortuary, with the family planning to transfer it to Lee Funeral Home.
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