Amref confirms fatal plane crash after Wilson Airport takeoff
AMREF Flying Doctors has confirmed that one of its medical evacuation aircraft was involved in a fatal crash shortly after takeoff from Wilson Airport on Thursday afternoon.
In a statement, the organisation said the aircraft, a Cessna Citation XLS registered as 5Y-FDM, departed the airport at 2:17 pm en route to Hargeisa, Somalia.
“The aircraft took off from Wilson at 1417hrs en route to Hargeisa, Somalia, and crashed at the Mwihoko area, Nairobi,” said Stephen Gitau, CEO and Accountable Manager at AMREF Flying Doctors.
The organisation did not disclose details about those on board, only stating that response teams were at the scene.
“At this time, we are cooperating fully with relevant aviation authorities and emergency response teams to establish the facts surrounding the situation,” Gitau said.
“Our immediate focus is on the safety and well-being of those on board and providing full support to their families and colleagues.”
He added that AMREF Flying Doctors is prioritising support for affected families and is providing the necessary assistance to ensure their well-being during this difficult time.
Gitau said the organisation is working closely with the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority and other relevant agencies to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.
“We respectfully ask for patience and understanding as we manage this evolving situation with care and accuracy,” he said, adding that further information would be provided once confirmed.
