Malindi Kenya, Tragedy struck on Saturday when a small Cessna aircraft carrying three aviation students crashed along the Malindi-Mombasa highway, bursting into flames and claiming three lives. The incident occurred in the Kwa Chocha area of Kilifi County, leaving the community reeling from the devastating loss.
According to reports, the aircraft experienced a mid-air malfunction before plunging to the ground, igniting a fire that engulfed the crash site. Among the deceased was a man trapped inside a Kia vehicle, which was engulfed in the inferno caused by the crash. Two other victims, both bodaboda operators transporting a female passenger, were fatally struck by the aircraft.
Videos circulating on social media captured the harrowing moments following the crash, showing plumes of smoke and the plane engulfed in flames near the busy Malindi-Kilifi road.
Three survivors the flight instructor and two student pilots were rescued from the wreckage and rushed to Tawfiq Private Hospital in Malindi, where they are receiving medical treatment.
Authorities, including the police and Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) officials, have arrived at the scene to launch an investigation into the incident. Initial reports indicate that the aircraft was on a training mission when it encountered mechanical failure.
The crash has raised concerns about the safety of small aircraft operating in the region, as aviation experts urge for thorough inspections and enhanced safety protocols to prevent similar tragedies.
Witnesses at the scene described the chaotic moments as the plane went down, with some narrowly escaping harm. “It was horrifying. The plane came down fast and exploded on impact. We tried to help, but the flames were too intense,” said a resident.
The wreckage has since been cordoned off as investigators comb the site for clues to determine the cause of the malfunction. Meanwhile, local leaders and residents have expressed condolences to the families of the deceased, urging for swift action to enhance air safety.
Further updates on the survivors’ condition and the investigation findings are expected in the coming days.
