At least 20 people have lost their lives in a tragic plane crash in South Sudan, with one survivor in critical condition, authorities have confirmed.
The aircraft, which was transporting passengers from Unity State to Juba, the nation’s capital, crashed at Unity Oil Field airport at approximately 10:30 a.m. local time (0830 GMT) on Wednesday. Unity State’s Minister of Information and Communication, Gatwech Bipal, confirmed the details to Xinhua News Agency, stating that 21 people were on board, including the crew.
“Today at 10:30 a.m. (0830 GMT), a plane crashed at Unity Oil Field airport. 21 people were on board, including the crew. Twenty people are now confirmed dead, and one survivor remains in critical condition,” Bipal said.
Authorities have not yet released further details on the cause of the crash, but rescue operations and accident investigations are ongoing. The tragedy marks another dark chapter in South Sudan’s history of aviation disasters.
South Sudan, a country that has faced years of internal conflict, has seen multiple aviation tragedies over the years. In September 2018, a small aircraft flying from Juba to Yirol crashed, killing at least 19 people. In 2015, a Russian-built cargo plane carrying passengers crashed shortly after takeoff from Juba’s airport, resulting in dozens of fatalities.
The aviation sector in South Sudan has been marred by aging aircraft, inadequate maintenance, and challenging flying conditions, contributing to repeated air disasters. The lack of stringent regulatory oversight and limited air traffic infrastructure further exacerbate the risks of air travel in the country.
Following Wednesday’s crash, officials have launched an investigation into the incident, seeking to determine the factors that led to the tragedy. Emergency response teams are on the ground at the crash site, working to recover bodies and assess the condition of the lone survivor.
South Sudanese authorities have yet to disclose whether the aircraft involved was a commercial, charter, or cargo flight. The airline operating the flight has not been named.
As rescue efforts continue, families of the victims are waiting for official confirmation and details regarding their loved ones. The government is expected to issue a formal statement once more information becomes available.
This latest crash underscores the urgent need for improved aviation safety measures in South Sudan to prevent further loss of life in the future.
