A small plane crashed in Kenya’s coastal region of Kwale on Tuesday, October 28, while en route to Maasai Mara National Reserve, resulting in the deaths of 11 people, according to officials. The incident occurred in a hilly and forested area approximately 40 kilometers from Diani airstrip.

The passengers on board were all foreign tourists, although their nationalities have not been confirmed, said Kwale County Commissioner Stephen Orinde. The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority reported that there were 11 people on the Cessna Caravan-type aircraft, but the breakdown of passengers and crew has not been released. An investigation into the cause of the crash is currently underway.

The aircraft crashed just minutes after takeoff and burst into flames, leaving behind a charred wreckage. Witnesses described hearing a loud bang and finding unrecognizable human remains at the scene. The airline, Mombasa Air Safari, is cooperating with the civil aviation authority and will provide updates through the authority.

Maasai Mara National Reserve, a popular tourist destination, is known for its annual wildebeest migration from the Serengeti in Tanzania. The reserve attracts tourists from around the world, and the incident is likely to have an impact on the local tourism industry. The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority will continue to investigate the cause of the crash and provide updates as more information becomes available.

The incident highlights the importance of aviation safety and the need for thorough investigations into such incidents. As the investigation continues, more information about the crash and its causes will be released. For now, the focus is on supporting the families of the victims and determining the circumstances surrounding the incident. The international community will be watching as the investigation unfolds, and the incident serves as a reminder of the risks and challenges associated with air travel.