Investigators from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Department (AAID) are still examining the circumstances surrounding the fatal Mount Ololokwe helicopter crash that occurred on August 19, 2026, in Samburu County, Kenya. The crash resulted in the deaths of seven people. According to the AAID's preliminary report released on September 18, 2026, the helicopter's landing-gear skid struck a rock formation near the summit during a low-level flight. The investigation is ongoing, with a focus on determining the probable causes and contributing factors of the accident.
The pilot of the helicopter, Josh Outram, 36, held a valid Commercial Pilot License (Helicopters) issued by the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) on December 7, 2025. His license was valid until December 6, 2026, and carried ratings for Robinson R44, Robinson R66, and Airbus EC130 helicopters. Outram also held a Class 1 Medical Certificate without limitations, issued on November 4, 2025, which was valid for 12 months up to December 3, 2026. His recorded flying experience stood at 5,201.3 hours, including 3,453 hours on fixed-wing aircraft.
The helicopter involved in the crash was a light, single-engine aircraft powered by a Turbomeca Arriel 2B1 turboshaft engine. It had a three-bladed main rotor and a 10-bladed shrouded Fenestron tail rotor system, which provides directional control while reducing external noise. The normal seating arrangement was one pilot and six passengers, although higher-capacity configurations could be allowed under approved modifications. The aircraft had a maximum take-off weight of 2,427kg and was fitted with three main cabin doors.
Investigators are assessing whether the aircraft's mass and centre of gravity at different stages of the flight were within the limits set by the manufacturer and approved aircraft documents. The review will cover the helicopter's loading arrangement, fuel quantity and distribution, payload, and any changes in its mass and centre of gravity during the relevant stages of the flight. The aim is to establish whether the helicopter was operating within the required mass and balance limits when the accident occurred.
The investigation is also reviewing the aircraft's maintenance history. Records provided by the operator showed that the latest maintenance inspections and checks had been carried out by Lady Lori Engineering Ltd, an Approved Maintenance Organization (AMO) based at Wilson Airport (HKNW). The company had been contracted by the operator to provide maintenance services. The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority notified the AAID in the State Department for Aviation and Aerospace Development (SDAAD) after the crash, and AAID investigators were deployed to the site to examine the wreckage and interview witnesses.
The occurrence was classified as an "accident" under the International Civil Aviation Organization's (ICAO) Annex 13 provisions. The AAID then notified the Bureau d’enquêtes et d’analyses pour la sécurité de l’aviation civile (BEA) in France because France was the State of Design and Manufacture of the helicopter and its engine. The BEA appointed an Accredited Representative (ACCREP) under ICAO Annex 13 to assist with the investigation. Other countries and organizations, including the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) of the United States and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), were also informed and appointed technical advisors to support the investigation.
Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir assured the public that aviation safety remained the government's highest priority and said the ministry would continue engaging all affected parties until the investigation was completed. The bodies of the seven victims were flown to their respective countries for burial. The AAID said its work to establish the probable causes and contributing factors of the crash is continuing.
Key points
- Investigators are examining the pilot's flying record, aircraft loading, fuel distribution, and maintenance history.
- The helicopter's mass and centre of gravity are being assessed to determine if they were within manufacturer limits.
- The investigation is being conducted in accordance with ICAO Annex 13 provisions.
