Preliminary Probe Reveals Helicopter That Killed MP Ng’eno Flew Low, Hit Trees Before Crash
A preliminary investigation into the helicopter crash that claimed the life of Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Ng’eno has revealed that the aircraft was flying at a dangerously low altitude before colliding with trees and crashing in Nandi County on Saturday, February 28.
According to a statement issued by the National Police Service (NPS) on Sunday, March 1, early findings indicate that the helicopter may have struggled to maintain safe flight levels moments before the fatal incident. Nandi County Police Commander Samuel Mukuusi confirmed that crucial investigative steps are already underway, including the recovery of key flight instruments.
“The wreckage, which was extensively damaged by fire, was cordoned off as forensic teams retrieved flight instruments and other technical components that could help to determine the cause of the crash,” Mukuusi stated.
Among the recovered equipment is the aircraft’s black box, a critical device expected to provide insight into the helicopter’s final moments. Investigators are now set to analyse the data to determine whether the crash resulted from mechanical failure, pilot error, or adverse weather conditions.
Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir confirmed that Kenya will work with international aviation bodies to ensure a thorough and independent probe. He noted that experts aligned with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) will lead part of the investigation and are expected to issue a preliminary report within 30 days.
“My Ministry, through the Aircraft Accident Investigation Department under the State Department for Aviation and Aerospace Development, has been on the crash site since yesterday and has initiated investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident,” Chirchir said.
“In line with ICAO Annex 13, the relevant authorities have been notified, and a preliminary report will be issued within 30 days,” he added.
The CS further confirmed that Kenya’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Department (AAID) is actively examining the crash site, working alongside security agencies to reconstruct the sequence of events leading up to the tragedy.
The helicopter, registration number 5Y-DSB, was carrying six people at the time of the crash, all of whom perished. Besides Ng’eno, the victims included Kenya Forest Service ranger Amos Kipngetich Rotich, photographer Nick Kosgei, teacher Robert Kipkoech Keter, Narok County protocol officer Wycliffe Kiprotich Rono, and pilot Captain George Were.
Flight records released by authorities show that the helicopter had made multiple stops throughout the day, departing from Wilson Airport at 11:04 a.m. before landing in several locations including Emurua Dikirr, Mararianta, Endebess, and Eldoret Airstrip. Radar contact was eventually lost at approximately 4:26 p.m. over Nandi County.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that the aircraft had earlier made an emergency landing in Mosop due to poor weather conditions, including heavy mist and intermittent rain. Witnesses reported that the pilot briefly consulted locals before attempting to resume the journey.
“The occupants kept making phone calls after the helicopter landed as the pilot assessed the weather. It remained airborne for only a few minutes before we saw it coming down,” one eyewitness recounted.
Preliminary observations indicate that the helicopter may have encountered difficulty gaining altitude after takeoff, eventually striking nearby trees before bursting into flames upon impact.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo also weighed in on the incident, pointing to weather conditions as a possible contributing factor.
Authorities have since secured the crash site, with the NPS assuring the public that all necessary measures are being taken to facilitate a transparent and comprehensive investigation.
“We appeal to the public to remain calm as investigations continue. Further updates regarding the investigation will be provided by the lead investigating agency in due course,” the NPS said in a statement.
As investigations intensify, attention now turns to the black box data and forensic analysis, which are expected to provide definitive answers on one of the country’s most tragic aviation incidents in recent months.
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Preliminary Probe Reveals Helicopter That Killed MP Ng’eno Flew Low, Hit Trees Before Crash
