1 fatality

1995 Cessna 402B Accident in Kwale District, Kenya (5Y-PAL)

KE

On January 9, 1995, an aircraft (registration 5Y-PAL) was involved in an aviation accident near KE. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The probable cause of the accident was a left engine malfunction, which led to a fire and the subsequent destruction of the aircraft. This summary draws on records from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Department of Kenya (AAID).

Sourcesthe Aircraft Accident Investigation Department of Kenya (AAID)Primary reportUpdated 2026-10-18Data APIEditorial standards

A Cessna 402B (5Y-PAL) crashed in Kwale District, Kenya, on January 9, 1995, killing the pilot and seriously injuring two passengers. The aircraft was destroyed by fire after a left engine malfunction.

Accident Overview and Flight History On January 9, 1995, a Cessna 402B with registration 5Y-PAL crashed in Gitenje Sub-Location, Kwale District, Coast Province, Kenya. The aircraft, operated by African Express Airways (K) Ltd, departed Moi International Airport at 0406 UTC for a scheduled flight to Ukunda airstrip, Musiara airstrip, and Wilson Airport, Nairobi. Approximately two minutes after takeoff, the pilot failed to respond to an Air Traffic Controller's message. Subsequent attempts to contact the aircraft were unsuccessful, and it was reported missing at 0445 UTC. The wreckage was later found at the crash site, where the aircraft had impacted at approximately 0415 UTC.

Probable cause

The probable cause of the accident was a left engine malfunction, which led to a fire and the subsequent destruction of the aircraft.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Jan 1995 aircraft accident near KE?

A Cessna 402B (5Y-PAL) crashed in Kwale District, Kenya, on January 9, 1995, killing the pilot and seriously injuring two passengers. The aircraft was destroyed by fire after a left engine malfunction.

Were there any fatalities in the 9 Jan 1995 aircraft accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Jan 1995 involved an aircraft, registration 5Y-PAL, at KE.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The probable cause of the accident was a left engine malfunction, which led to a fire and the subsequent destruction of the aircraft.