What You Need to Know
A tragic plane crash in Juba, South Sudan, has claimed the lives of 14 individuals, including two Kenyans. The aircraft, a CityLink Aviation Cessna 208, lost communication shortly after takeoff from Yei. Preliminary investigations suggest adverse weather conditions may have contributed to the crash, which occurred approximately 20 kilometers from Juba. No survivors have been reported, and response
Africa-Press – Kenya. At least 14 people, including two Kenyans, died after a plane they were flying in crashed in Juba, South Sudan.
The South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority (SSCAA) has confirmed that a CityLink Aviation Cessna 208 Caravan travelling from Yei to Juba crashed approximately 20 kilometres southwest of Juba, after losing communication shortly after departure.
SSCAA said the aircraft, operated by CityLink Aviation, was coming from Yei and likely crashed due to bad weather.
The plane was a Kenyan one.
The aircraft, registration 5Y-NOK and operated by CityLink Aviation Ltd, had departed Yei at 9:15 a.m. en route to Juba International Airport.
Communication with the plane was lost at around 9:43 a.m.
On board were 14 people—13 passengers and one pilot.
The group included two Kenyan nationals and 12 South Sudanese nationals. Authorities have confirmed that there were no survivors.
Preliminary findings suggest the crash may have been caused by adverse weather conditions, particularly poor visibility. Response teams have been deployed to the crash site to begin investigations and coordinate recovery efforts.
The SSCAA expressed condolences to the families of the victims and indicated that more information will be released as investigations progress.
South Sudan has faced numerous challenges since gaining independence in 2011, including ongoing conflict and instability. The aviation sector in the country has been particularly affected, with safety concerns arising from inadequate infrastructure and regulatory oversight. Incidents like this plane crash highlight the urgent need for improved aviation safety measures and better weather monitoring systems to prevent future tragedies. The South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority is tasked with ensuring compliance with safety regulations, but operational challenges persist due to the country’s complex political landscape.
