Plane Crash Claims 12 in Kenya

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

A small plane carrying 12 people crashed in a hilly, forested area of Kenya’s coastal Kwale region killing all onboard

The aircraft was headed to the renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve.

The Cessna Caravan-type plane went down about 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Diani airstrip, minutes after takeoff, bursting into flames and leaving charred wreckage, authorities reported.

Kwale County Commissioner Stephen Orinde told The Associated Press that all passengers were foreign tourists, with nationalities to be confirmed later.

The exact breakdown of passengers and crew was not immediately available.

Witnesses described hearing a loud bang before arriving at the scene to find unrecognizable human remains.

The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority confirmed 12 people were aboard and is investigating the cause.

Mombasa Air Safari, the operator, said it is cooperating with authorities and will provide updates through the aviation body.