All passengers aboard a light tourist aircraft have been feared killed when it crashed shortly after takeoff.
According to a report by CNN, the aircraft went down about 20 minutes after departing from the Diani Airstrip in the coastal Kwale region. The Cessna Caravan-type plane, operated by Mombasa Air Safari, was en route to the Maasai Mara National Reserve, a popular wildlife destination, when it crashed in a hilly and forested area approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) from the airstrip.
Eyewitnesses and local authorities said the aircraft burst into flames upon impact, leaving little hope for survivors. Rescue teams were immediately dispatched to the crash site.
In a statement, the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) confirmed that 12 people were onboard the aircraft at the time of the incident.
“The Cessna Caravan-type aircraft operated by Mombasa Air Safari was involved in an accident shortly after takeoff from Diani Airstrip. All 12 persons on board are feared dead,” the KCAA said.
Officials said investigations have begun to determine the cause of the crash, which occurred under clear weather conditions.
