A preliminary investigation into the helicopter crash that killed Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Ng’eno and five others has identified deteriorating weather and poor visibility as the main causes of the February 28 tragedy.
The report, released by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Department (AAID), shows that the Airbus AS350B3 Ecureuil (5Y-DSB) was on a commercial charter flight when it encountered adverse weather conditions while heading toward Emurua Dikirr.
Investigators found that the aircraft had completed several earlier flights without incident but later ran into fog, light rain, and severely reduced visibility. Eyewitnesses at the Chepkiep crash site reported that visibility dropped to less than 20 meters, far worse than earlier forecasts by the Kenya Meteorological Department.
According to the report, the pilot initially made a precautionary landing in Tabolwa, Nandi County, at around 4:20 pm due to worsening weather. After waiting briefly for conditions to improve, the crew resumed the flight at 4:25 pm.
However, the helicopter crashed just a minute later, at approximately 4:26 pm, after colliding with rising terrain in the Chepkiep area of Mosop Sub-county, about 200 meters from the takeoff point.
The flight was operating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR), which require pilots to maintain clear visibility of the ground. Investigators say the heavy fog and low cloud cover made navigation extremely difficult.
The report also ruled out mechanical failure as a cause. Maintenance records showed the aircraft was in good condition, with a valid Certificate of Airworthiness and no reported defects. Fuel levels and weight distribution were also within safe limits at the time of the crash.
Post a Comment