Disaster in Somalia- Kenyan Cargo Plane Crashes in Flames—No Survivors
A Kenyan-registered cargo plane crashed about 24 kilometers southwest of Mogadishu on Saturday, March 22, 2025. All five people on board lost their lives, according to the Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA). The tragic incident has raised concerns about aviation safety in the region.
Details of the Flight and Crash
The aircraft, a DHC-5D Buffalo with registration 5Y-RBA, was operated by Trident Aviation Ltd. It had taken off from Dhobley in Somalia’s Lower Juba region, where it had delivered essential supplies to African Union forces. The plane was en route to Aden Abdulle International Airport in Mogadishu when the crash occurred at approximately 5:43 PM local time.
Preliminary reports indicate that the crash happened under circumstances that are still under investigation. The Somali government, alongside international aviation experts, has mobilized teams to the crash site to conduct search and rescue operations. However, the SCAA has confirmed that there were no survivors.
“Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those affected,” the SCAA said in an official statement. “Further updates will be shared as more information becomes available.”
About the Aircraft
The DHC-5D Buffalo is a short-takeoff-and-landing (STOL) utility aircraft designed for cargo transport in difficult terrains. It is commonly used for military and humanitarian operations, especially in remote regions with limited infrastructure. The aircraft’s ability to operate in rough conditions made it a suitable choice for missions like supplying African Union peacekeeping forces in Somalia.
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The aircraft’s last flight involved delivering crucial supplies to support peacekeeping operations in Dhobley, a strategic town near the Kenya-Somalia border. Given the challenging conditions in the region, pilots operating such flights often navigate through unpredictable weather and airspace challenges.
Ongoing Investigation
Aviation authorities have launched a full investigation into the incident. Experts from Somalia, Kenya, and international aviation bodies are expected to collaborate in determining the cause of the crash. Factors such as mechanical failure, pilot error, weather conditions, and possible external threats will all be considered.
The crash marks another somber moment for aviation safety in the Horn of Africa, a region that has faced recurring challenges due to aging aircraft, difficult operational environments, and limited aviation infrastructure.
The SCAA has pledged transparency in the investigation and assured the public that measures will be taken to improve aviation safety. The results of the investigation will be made public once the inquiry is completed.
Impact and Reactions
The incident has drawn condolences and reactions from both local and international communities. Families of the victims are awaiting further details on the tragedy, while aviation experts are closely monitoring the case to understand the broader implications for regional air travel.
The loss of five crew members has highlighted the risks faced by aviation personnel operating in challenging environments. Many are now calling for increased safety measures, better aircraft maintenance, and improved regulatory oversight to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
As authorities continue their investigation, more details are expected to emerge about the cause of the crash and possible preventive actions to enhance flight safety in the region.
Stay tuned for further updates as the story develops.
Disaster in Somalia- Kenyan Cargo Plane Crashes in Flames—No Survivors
