The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has confirmed an aircraft accident involving a Eurocopter EC130 B4 at Mt Ololokwe in Samburu County.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, KCAA said the aircraft, registration 5Y-GYM, was involved in the accident while conducting a flight from Loisaba to Ewaso Nyiro.
According to the aviation regulator, the crash occurred at approximately 9:13am local time at Lolokwe Mountain.
“KCAA is coordinating with the relevant agencies and stakeholders in response to the accident,” the authority said.
The Air Accident Investigation Department (AAID) under the Ministry of Roads and Transport is leading investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
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The authority did not provide details on the condition or identities of those who were on board, saying investigations were ongoing.
The crash comes amid reports of a major rescue operation at the remote site, with local residents and rescue teams mobilising to reach the aircraft.
Earlier reports indicated that the helicopter had been operating a tourism-related flight in the Samburu region before the accident.
The exact circumstances leading to the crash remain unclear.KCAA expressed its condolences to the families of those affected by the incident.
“The Authority extends its deepest condolences to the families of the victims following this tragic incident,” the statement said.
The condition of the occupants remains unconfirmed, with authorities yet to issue an official statement on possible casualties or survivors.
The remote and rugged terrain around Mt Ololokwe is complicating access to the crash site as rescue teams work to reach the wreckage.
More information is expected as the rescue operation continues and authorities establish further details.
