Kenya Plane Crash: 11 Dead After Mombasa Air Safari Flight Carrying Hungarian, German Tourists Explodes

A devastating tragedy struck Kenya on Tuesday as a light aircraft carrying foreign tourists crashed near the Indian Ocean coast, killing all 11 people on board.

The aircraft, operated by Mombasa Air Safari, was traveling from Diani, on the coast, to the popular Kichwa Tembo safari camp in the Maasai Mara national reserve. The Civil Aviation Authority confirmed the accident occurred around 08:30 local time (05:30 GMT) in Kwale County.

The Victims

Mombasa Air Safari confirmed the victims included 10 passengers and the Kenyan captain. The passengers comprised eight Hungarians and two Germans, all confirmed to be tourists by a regional police commander.

In a heartbreaking statement, Mombasa Air Safari said, “Sadly, there are no survivors,” adding that their primary focus is now on “providing all possible support to the families affected.”

Investigation Underway

The incident appears to have happened rapidly, with the plane reportedly crashing just minutes after takeoff and immediately bursting into flames. Witnesses near the scene reported hearing a loud bang before discovering the wreckage. Initial reports from Citizen TV station indicated that the bodies of those on board were burned beyond recognition.

The investigation into the cause of the crash has begun, but initial efforts are being hampered by poor weather conditions. Stephen Orinde, Kwale County Commissioner, told the BBC that the area is currently experiencing rain and heavy mist, cautioning against pre-empting the findings of the inquiry.

Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the victims during this incredibly difficult time. We will continue to update this story as more details from the official investigation become available.