Kenyan officials have reported a plane crash in the coastal region of Kwale, with 12 individuals feared to have lost their lives. The incident occurred today as the small aircraft was en route to the Maasai Mara National Reserve, crashing in a hilly area approximately 25 miles from Diani airstrip.
According to Kwale County Commissioner Stephen Orinde, all passengers on board were foreign tourists, although their nationalities are yet to be confirmed. The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority has initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
The specific breakdown of crew versus passengers remains unknown at this time. The plane is said to have crashed shortly after takeoff, igniting into flames and resulting in a charred wreckage at the crash site. Witnesses described hearing a loud noise and discovering unidentifiable human remains upon arrival.
Mombasa Air Safari, the airline involved, indicated collaboration with aviation authorities for updates on the situation. The Maasai Mara National Reserve, known for its wildlife and the annual wildebeest migration, attracts numerous tourists each year.