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Crew Distraction Leads to Belly Landing at Kisumu Airport (5Y-BBS)

Kisumu, KenyaLanding (descent or approach)

On July 10, 1988, a Fokker F27 Friendship (registration 5Y-BBS) operated by Kenya Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Kisumu, Kenya during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It was determined that the attention of the crew was focused on various discussions unrelated to the flight operations. Distracted, the crew failed to follow the approach checklist and failed to lower the landing gear. 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.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-11Data APIEditorial standards

On final approach to Kisumu Airport, distracted pilots failed to lower landing gear, resulting in a belly landing. All 43 occupants were evacuated; five passengers sustained minor injuries. The aircraft was damaged beyond repair.

Incident Overview

During the final approach to Kisumu Airport, the flight crew engaged in conversations unrelated to flight operations. This distraction caused them to neglect monitoring instruments and the approach procedure. The aircraft touched down on its belly, skidding for several hundred meters before coming to a stop on the runway.

Occupants and Injuries

All 43 occupants were safely evacuated from the aircraft. Five passengers reported minor injuries. The aircraft sustained substantial damage and was considered beyond economical repair.

Investigation Findings

The official investigation determined that the crew's attention was diverted by discussions not pertaining to the flight. As a result, they failed to complete the approach checklist and did not extend the landing gear. Additionally, the crew did not monitor the flight instruments, leading to an excessive landing speed.

Probable cause

It was determined that the attention of the crew was focused on various discussions unrelated to the flight operations. Distracted, the crew failed to follow the approach checklist and failed to lower the landing gear. Also, the crew failed to monitor the instruments, causing the aircraft to land at an excessive speed.

Related events

Same operator

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