Tragedy in Kenyan Skies: Student Pilot and Trainer Killed in Mid-Air Collision

Nairobi, Kenya – March 12, 2024 – A mid-air collision near Nairobi National Park has resulted in the heartbreaking deaths of a student pilot and their flight instructor. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday morning, involved a small training aircraft and a passenger plane.

Training Flight Ends in Disaster

The Cessna 172, operated by the 99 Flying School, was on a routine training flight when the collision happened. Sadly, both the student pilot and the instructor perished in the crash. The plane came down within the Nairobi National Park, roughly six miles from Wilson Airport, the busy domestic airport in the Kenyan capital.

Passenger Plane Makes Safe Return

The other aircraft involved was a Safarilink Dash 8 carrying 44 people on a scheduled flight to Diani Beach. Thankfully, there were no injuries reported among the passengers and crew. The plane did sustain some damage and reportedly experienced a “loud bang” after the collision. The pilot made the decision to return to Wilson Airport for inspection and landed safely.

Investigations Underway

The cause of the mid-air collision remains under investigation. Kenya’s Civil Aviation Authority, along with the National Police Service, are working to determine what transpired. The air traffic control procedures and communication logs will be meticulously examined to understand what led to this tragic event.

A Devastating Loss for the Aviation Community

The Kenyan aviation community is in mourning following this accident. The loss of a student pilot and their instructor is a stark reminder of the risks inherent in flying. This incident is sure to prompt a thorough review of safety protocols and airspace management in the vicinity of Wilson Airport.

This blog will be updated as further information becomes available regarding the cause of the crash and the identities of the victims.pen_sparktunesharemore_vert