Safety Lapses and Human Mistakes Drive Surge in Kenya’s Air Disasters

Kenya’s aviation sector is facing growing scrutiny after a series of fatal air accidents raised serious concerns about safety practices and regulatory oversight. 

The most recent tragedy occurred in Mwihoko, Nairobi, where an AMREF Flying Doctors aircraft crashed, killing all those on board as well as innocent bystanders on the ground. The crash claimed six lives in total and has renewed public alarm over the state of aviation safety in the country. This marks the third major air accident in Kenya within a year. 

In July, a Kenya Air Force aircraft went down in Kwale County shortly after departing Mombasa, killing two military officers. In January, two people died when a light aircraft crashed at Kedong Ranch near Naivasha, with rescue efforts hindered by poor weather conditions.

While the types of aircraft involved vary, aviation experts warn that the core issue may not be mechanical failure alone. Instead, some suggest a broader decline in safety standards and operational discipline. Godwin Ike, an aviation consultant, stresses that “aeroplanes are faithful machines” with built-in redundancies. His remarks suggest that failures may stem from human error, neglect of maintenance protocols, or delayed responses to technical warnings.

Weather is another increasingly critical factor. Erratic and extreme conditions, attributed to climate change, are placing further strain on aviation operations. Felicity Ahafianyo, head of Ghana’s Central Analysis and Forecast Office, notes that unpredictable rainfall, low visibility, wind shear, and thunderstorms are becoming more common and more dangerous. These conditions pose serious challenges, especially for older aircraft and pilots flying in difficult terrain.

Kenya’s ability to respond to these challenges is further limited by systemic constraints. Aviation regulators often face budgetary shortages and lack advanced equipment, which hampers enforcement of international safety standards. Rising costs of aircraft parts and maintenance have also created financial pressure on operators, sometimes resulting in delayed repairs or cost-cutting in critical areas.

International bodies have repeatedly urged African governments to modernise aviation safety systems and invest in climate resilience.