A military investigation has concluded that an engine malfunction was responsible for the tragic helicopter crash that killed Kenya’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Francis Ogolla, and several other military officers on April 18, 2024.
According to a report released by the Ministry of Defence on Friday, the Kenya Air Force Huey Helicopter, designated KAF 1501, suffered a critical engine compressor stall also known as an engine surge resulting in complete power loss shortly before the crash in Kaben, Marakwet East. The aircraft, previously rated as highly reliable, had completed numerous operational and VIP missions.
The report states that the helicopter was operated by a qualified and competent crew. Survivors reported a loud bang from the engine compartment moments before the aircraft lost power. Data from the Measured Gas Temperature (MGT) gauge showed an over-exceedance of 914°C, confirming severe engine distress. Witnesses on the ground also reported hearing a low RPM audio alarm and observed a left yaw followed by a dramatic drop in engine revolutions, indicating a total loss of control.
Efforts by the pilots to guide the chopper to a clear landing zone were unsuccessful. The aircraft crashed and burst into flames, killing 11 of the 12 individuals on board. The only survivor, believed to be a military photographer, provided critical information for the investigation.
General Ogolla had recently taken over as CDF from General Robert Kibochi after the latter reached the mandatory retirement age of 62. A decorated officer, Ogolla was a graduate of École Militaire de Paris and held advanced degrees from Egerton University and the University of Nairobi. He had previously served as Vice Chief of the Defence Forces.
He is survived by his wife Aileenn Ogolla, two children, and a grandson. As CDF, Ogolla was the highest-ranking military officer in Kenya and served as the principal military adviser to the President and the National Security Council.
His untimely death marks a significant loss to the Kenya Defence Forces and the nation at large.
