NAIROBI, Kenya — Six people have died following a helicopter crash in Mosop, Nandi County, the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has confirmed.
In a press statement dated February 28, 2026, KCAA said the accident occurred at approximately 4:30 p.m. and involved an AS350 helicopter, registration 5Y-DSB.
The aircraft was operating a flight from Endebes to Mosoriot when it crashed at Kabiet Sub-location in the Mosop area of Nandi Hills.
“At the time of the accident, there were six (6) persons on board. The accident is reported to have been fatal; however, confirmation of casualties and identities will be communicated by the relevant authorities once the next of kin have been duly informed,” the Authority said.
The regulator stated that it has activated formal investigation procedures through the Aircraft Accident Investigation Department (AAID) to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash.
KCAA Director General Emile N. Arao signed the statement, noting that further details would be provided once verified information becomes available.
“The Authority extends its sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of those affected,” the statement read.
Investigation Underway
Under the Civil Aviation Act, 2013, aircraft accident investigations in Kenya are conducted independently to determine the cause and prevent recurrence, rather than to apportion blame.
The AAID is expected to secure the crash site, retrieve flight data where applicable, and analyse technical, operational, and environmental factors.
Aviation experts note that the AS350 is a widely used single-engine light helicopter, commonly deployed for private charters, corporate travel, and aerial operations.
Investigators will examine weather conditions, aircraft maintenance records, pilot qualifications, and flight path details as part of the inquiry.
Authorities have yet to release the identities of those on board, pending notification of families.
National Attention
The crash has drawn national attention amid heightened scrutiny of aviation safety and regulatory oversight.
Kenya’s civil aviation framework is guided by international standards under the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), which require transparent investigations and public reporting of findings.
Leaders and members of the public have continued to send messages of condolence as the country awaits official confirmation of the victims and preliminary findings.
The KCAA said updates will be issued as soon as verified information is available.
For now, the focus remains on supporting affected families and conducting a thorough investigation to determine what led to the fatal crash in Nandi.
