KCAA breaks silence after a deadly Samburu aircraft accident

The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has acknowledged a fatal aircraft incident at Lolokwe Mountain in Samburu County, leaving several individuals unaccounted for. The accident, involving a Eurocopter EC130 B4 registration 5Y-GYM, transpired on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, during a flight from Loisaba to Ewasonyiro. The event unfolded around 9:13 am local time, according to the KCAA's statement on the same day.

The Ministry of Roads and Transport’s Air Accident Investigation Department is spearheading the investigation into the crash's circumstances. KCAA reported, "KCAA confirms that an aircraft accident involving a Eurocopter EC130 B4, registration 5Y-GYM, has occurred at Lolokwe Mountain in Samburu County on Wednesday, 19 August 2026." The authority has commenced coordination with pertinent agencies and stakeholders in response to the incident.

As of now, KCAA has not disclosed the number of individuals onboard the helicopter or confirmed the fatality count. The Air Accident Investigation Department is diligently piecing together the events leading to the crash at Lolokwe Mountain, examining the aircraft's condition and other contributing factors. KCAA is actively collaborating with other entities to facilitate the response and ongoing investigation into the tragedy.

The authority has also extended its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. Anticipated updates will include the number of occupants and confirmed casualties as the authorities advance with their response and investigation.