Nairobi, Kenya – A AMREF Flying Doctors aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from Wilson Airport on August 7, 2025, killing two people and leaving two others injured. The Cessna Citation XLS, registration 5Y-FDM, was en route to Hargeisa, Somalia, when it went down in Mwihoko, a residential area in Nairobi.
Key Details of the Crash
- Aircraft: Cessna Citation XLS (Registration: 5Y-FDM)
- Departure Point: Wilson Airport, Nairobi
- Destination: Hargeisa, Somalia
- Time of Crash: Shortly after takeoff at 14:17 hrs
- Casualties: 2 dead, 2 injured
- Investigation Status: Ongoing by Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA)
What Went Wrong?
The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) confirmed that the plane lost radio and radar contact just three minutes after takeoff, raising urgent questions about possible mechanical failure, weather conditions, or pilot error.
AMREF Flying Doctors CEO Stephen Gitau issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over the incident and assured full cooperation with authorities.
“Our immediate focus is on the safety and well-being of those on board and providing full support to their families and colleagues.”
Eyewitness Accounts & Emergency Response
Local residents reported hearing a loud explosion before seeing smoke billowing from the crash site. Emergency teams rushed to the scene, but the impact was severe, leaving little chance for survivors.
- First responders included police, firefighters, and AMREF emergency teams.
- Two survivors were rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition.
- KCAA investigators have cordoned off the area to collect evidence.
AMREF’s Safety Record & Previous Incidents
AMREF Flying Doctors, a well-respected medical evacuation service, has historically maintained a strong safety record. However, this crash raises concerns about small aircraft operations in the region.
- 2018: A similar incident involving a medical evacuation plane in Tanzania.
- 2021: A Kenyan charter flight crashed in Nairobi, killing all on board.
What’s Next?
The KCAA will lead the investigation, focusing on:
- Black box recovery (if available)
- ATC communications before the crash
- Weather data at the time of takeoff
- Aircraft maintenance records
Aviation experts suggest that rapid loss of communication could indicate sudden system failure, but official findings may take weeks.
photos before and after accidents.
