Mogadishu, Somalia| A Kenyan-registered cargo plane crashed southwest of Mogadishu on Saturday evening, killing all five people on board.
The tragic accident occurred as the aircraft was returning from a supply mission to the African Union forces in Somalia.
Crash Details and Aircraft Information
The ill-fated plane, a DHC-5D Buffalo with registration 5Y-RBA, was operated by Trident Aviation Ltd, a Kenyan aviation company.
According to the Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA), the aircraft crashed approximately 24 kilometers southwest of Mogadishu at 5:43 PM local time while en route to Aden Abdulle International Airport (HCMM) from Dhobley Airport (HCDB) in the Lower Juba region.
“There were five persons on board (POB), all of whom have tragically lost their lives. The flight had departed from Dhobley and was heading to Mogadishu when the crash occurred,” the SCAA said in a statement on Sunday.
Somali authorities have mobilized emergency response teams and government agencies to the crash site for search and rescue efforts, though no survivors were found.
Possible Causes Under Investigation
The cause of the crash remains unclear, with authorities launching a full-scale investigation.
Initial reports suggest that the aircraft may have experienced mechanical issues earlier in Dhobley, though sources indicate these were reportedly fixed before departure.
Aviation experts have pointed to challenging flying conditions, aging aircraft, and operational risks in the Horn of Africa as potential contributing factors.
However, the exact cause—whether mechanical failure, human error, or external factors—will be determined through a formal investigation.
The SCAA has assured the public that a comprehensive inquiry will be conducted in collaboration with government agencies and international aviation authorities to uncover the circumstances leading to the disaster.
Impact on Aviation and Regional Operations
The DHC-5 Buffalo is a well-regarded military and civilian transport aircraft, known for its ability to operate in rugged conditions.
It has been widely used for humanitarian missions and military logistics across Africa.
Aden Abdulle International Airport, Somalia’s primary aviation hub, serves as a crucial gateway for humanitarian aid, diplomatic missions, and military operations in the region.
Dhobley Airport, near the Kenyan border, is frequently used for logistics support, making this crash a significant incident in regional aviation.
Condolences and Official Response
Authorities and aviation officials have expressed their condolences to the victims’ families. “Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those affected,” the SCAA stated.
Kenyan and Somali officials are coordinating to facilitate the identification and repatriation of the deceased. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
This incident adds to growing concerns over aviation safety in conflict-prone regions, where aging aircraft, limited infrastructure, and unpredictable conditions pose persistent risks.
Ongoing Investigation and Next Steps
While authorities work to piece together the final moments of the doomed flight, experts emphasize the need for enhanced safety protocols and improved oversight for cargo and humanitarian flights operating in high-risk zones.
As Somalia and Kenya mourn this tragic loss, the aviation community awaits answers that may help prevent similar disasters in the future.
Authorities have pledged to release more details as soon as they become available.
Share This Post