Air ambulance accident results in the death of six people

AMREF Flying Doctors has confirmed that one of its air ambulance jets was involved in a fatal accident in the afternoon of 7 August 2025.

The aircraft departed Wilson Airport, Nairobi, Kenya, at 14:17 local time en route to Hargeisa in Somalia, where it was scheduled to pick up a patient for medical evacuation. Approximately three minutes after takeoff, the aircraft lost contact with the control tower. The tower immediately alerted AMREF Flying Doctors, but efforts to reach the crew via VHF radio and satellite phone were unsuccessful.

There were four crewmembers on board who died in the crash: the Captain, a First Officer, a doctor and a nurse. Furthermore, two members of the community at the crash site also died in the incident.

Stephen Gitau, CEO and Accountable Manager at AMREF Flying Doctors, said that the company is “profoundly saddened by this tragic loss” and it extends “its heartfelt condolences to the families of [its] fallen colleagues and the affected members of the community”. Gitau continued to say that it was doing everything possible to support the families, friends, and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time. He added: “We are also mindful of the impact on the local community at the crash site and are extending our full sympathies and support to those affected.”

AMREF Flying Doctors is working closely with the relevant aviation authorities, security agencies, and emergency response teams to investigate the cause of the accident. Investigators are currently at the scene and AMREF Flying Doctors is awaiting their official findings before providing further comment. The company respectfully requests patience and understanding as it continues to gather more information. Gitau said that it remains committed to providing accurate and timely updates, and these will be issued through the AMREF Flying Doctors media contact center at the Weston Hotel, Nairobi. The company can also be reached via [email protected]

Just yesterday, it was reported that CSI Aviation was also subject to an accident where two pilots and two healthcare providers had died en route to provide air ambulance services.