The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has confirmed a helicopter crash at Lolokwe Mountain in Samburu County that occurred on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.
The aircraft, a Eurocopter EC130 B4 with registration 5Y-GYM, was travelling from Loisaba to Ewasonyiro when the accident occurred at about 9:13am.
KCAA said it was coordinating with relevant agencies and stakeholders in response to the incident.
Aircraft crashed during flight
In a statement issued on Wednesday, KCAA confirmed the accident and identified the aircraft involved.
“KCAA confirms that an aircraft accident involving a Eurocopter EC130 B4, registration 5Y-GYM, has occurred at Lolokwe Mountain in Samburu County on Wednesday, 19 August 2026,” the authority said.
“The aircraft was conducting a flight from Loisaba to Ewasonyiro when the accident occurred at approximately 0913 hrs local time,” KCAA added.
The authority did not immediately state how many people were aboard the helicopter or provide an official figure on casualties.
Information from the crash site was still emerging as response teams and relevant agencies coordinated their efforts.
Air accident investigators begin probe
The Ministry of Roads and Transport’s Air Accident Investigation Department is leading investigations into the circumstances that led to the crash.
KCAA said the investigation would establish what happened during the flight and determine the circumstances surrounding the accident.
“The Ministry of Roads and Transport, Air Accident Investigation Department is leading investigations on circumstances surrounding the accident,” the authority said.
KCAA also expressed condolences to the families of the victims.
“The Authority extends its deepest condolences to the families of the victims following this tragic incident,” it said.
More information on the occupants and confirmed casualties is expected as authorities continue responding to the incident and release further details.
