Plane with Passengers Onboard Loses Control in Migori During Takeoff

Image: An aircraft used for illustration purposes

An aircraft veered off the runway while taking off from Lichota Airstrip in Migori at approximately 12:30 PM on Monday, September 16.

According to reports, the plane identified as 5Y-ZBW was carrying 10 passengers and one crew member. Fortunately, no fatalities or injuries were reported in the incident.

Witnesses described a harrowing scene as the plane neared the end of the runway before veering off and stalling.

"I was in my compound next to the airstrip when I saw the plane trying to take off. It lost control and stalled at the end of the runway," said Moses Ywera, one of the witnesses.

Billowing smoke was seen after the plane came to a halt, prompting fears of a serious accident.

Emergency response teams, including a fire engine and ambulance from the Migori County Government, swiftly arrived at the scene.

However, efforts by locals to assist were initially thwarted by airstrip officials who took control of the rescue operations.

In a press release, Z. Boskovic Air Charters confirmed the incident and expressed relief that all passengers and crew were safe.

“We are relieved to confirm that there were no fatalities or injuries reported," the statement read in part.

The company stated that they had engaged the relevant authorities to investigate the incident.

As of the time of reporting, the cause of the accident had not been disclosed.

The company promised further updates as the investigation progresses.