On December 17, 2023, a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan (registration 5Y-GOK) operated by Government of Kenya was involved in an aviation accident near Kiunga, Kenya during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck electrical wires during its initial climb from the airstrip. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A single-engine aircraft crashed into electrical wires during its initial climb from Kiunga Airstrip, resulting in a post-crash fire.
What happened
During the initial climb phase following departure from Kiunga Airstrip, a single-engine airplane struck electrical wires. The impact caused the aircraft to crash in the vicinity of several small residential structures. Upon impact, the aircraft caught fire, leading to the total destruction of the airframe.
There were 10 occupants on board the aircraft at the time of the accident, consisting of the crew and eight passengers who were identified as Kenyan Police officers traveling back to Nairobi. Despite the intensity of the post-crash fire, all individuals managed to evacuate the wreckage. The accident resulted in 10 minor injuries and no fatalities.
Findings
The aircraft collided with utility lines during the ascent.
A post-crash fire caused the complete loss of the aircraft.
Probable cause
The aircraft struck electrical wires during its initial climb from the airstrip.