KCAA identifies helicopter that crashed at Mt Ololokwe as Eurocopter EC130 B4

KCAA Identifies Crashed Helicopter as Eurocopter EC130 B4 at Mt Ololokwe

Nairobi, Kenya - The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has officially identified the helicopter that crashed at Mt Ololokwe, Samburu County, as a Eurocopter EC130 B4, registration 5Y-GYM. The aircraft was conducting a flight from Loisaba to Ewasonyiro when the accident occurred around 9:13 a.m. local time on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.

The confirmation of the aircraft involved marks the first official details released by KCAA, as authorities commence their investigation into the aviation accident. The Ministry of Roads and Transport's Air Accident Investigation Department (AAID) is spearheading the inquiry, collaborating with KCAA and other relevant agencies.

The Eurocopter EC130 B4, now known as the Airbus H130, is a light single-engine helicopter typically utilized for passenger transport, tourism, and charter operations. Depending on its configuration, it can typically accommodate a pilot and six to seven passengers. The crash site, near Mt Ololokwe, was initially reported to have smoke and fire, prompting local residents and responders to rush to the area.

KCAA has not disclosed the number of individuals aboard the helicopter or their identities. The authority, however, emphasized that the incident was being treated as an aircraft accident and conveyed its deepest condolences to the families of the victims. The cause of the accident remains undetermined at this stage, with further details expected as the investigation continues.