Rescue teams are facing a race against time after a passenger plane carrying twelve people crashed in a remote forest area of Kenya, with all on board feared dead.
The aircraft, operated by local carrier Florid Air, vanished from radar screens on Tuesday afternoon while en route from Nairobi to the popular tourist destination of Lake Nakuru.
Desperate Search in Treacherous Conditions
Emergency services have located the wreckage in the Kijabe Forest, approximately 40 miles northwest of the capital Nairobi. The dense woodland and challenging terrain have severely hampered rescue efforts, with teams forced to proceed on foot through difficult landscape.
Witnesses reported hearing a loud explosion followed by plumes of smoke rising from the forest area, alerting authorities to the potential crash site.
Passenger Manifest Reveals Tragic Details
According to aviation officials, the plane was carrying ten passengers and two crew members when it disappeared during its short domestic flight. Authorities have not yet released the identities of those on board, but family members have begun gathering at both departure and destination airports seeking information.
"This is a devastating day for Kenyan aviation," said one official who asked not to be named. "We are doing everything possible to reach the site and provide answers to the grieving families."
Investigation Launched Amid Growing Concerns
Aviation authorities have launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Early reports suggest adverse weather conditions may have been a factor, though officials stress it's too early to determine the exact cause.
The crash has raised questions about aviation safety in the region, particularly concerning smaller aircraft operating domestic routes to tourist destinations.
As night falls over the crash site, rescue operations continue under generator-powered lights, with teams determined to recover all victims despite the challenging conditions.
