Omanghana
A student pilot and a flight instructor have died after a light training aircraft crashed in southern Kenya on Friday, September 18, 2026.
The Cessna 172, operated by the Kenya School of Flying, reportedly went down during a routine training exercise in the hilly Kipeto area of Kajiado West Sub-County.
The aircraft crashed near the Kipeto Wind Power Project, prompting an emergency response from police and other local authorities.
Local police commander Maureen Kuto said the student pilot died at the scene. The instructor sustained severe injuries and was being transported to a hospital in Kitengela but died before receiving treatment.
Preliminary reports indicate that heavy morning mist and poor visibility may have affected the flight. Investigators are examining claims that the pilots attempted an emergency landing before the aircraft struck the ground.
The wreckage landed in a dry field close to schools in the area, causing panic among residents. Witnesses expressed relief that the aircraft did not crash into nearby classrooms or groups of students.
Emergency personnel and police secured the scene shortly after the accident to protect the wreckage and support the investigation.
Aviation safety authorities have been notified and are expected to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the crash. Investigators will examine the aircraft’s mechanical condition, weather conditions, flight records and the surrounding terrain.
They will also assess whether any physical structures or other environmental factors contributed to the accident.
Authorities have not yet announced the identities of the deceased. The confirmed cause of the crash will be established after the aviation investigation is completed.
Source: Omanghana
