Kilimanjaro Regional Police Commander Simon Maigwa said the aircraft belonged to Kilimanjaro Aviation, a company that conducts aerial rescue and medical transport operations in the region. The firm has not yet issued a public statement regarding the crash. Maigwa added that additional details would be released after initial findings are compiled.
The Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) announced that a formal investigation has begun in line with international safety protocols designed to determine the sequence of events and technical factors that led to the accident. Investigators are expected to examine flight data, maintenance records and weather conditions at the time of the mission. Guidelines from the International Civil Aviation Organization stipulate that such inquiries focus on preventing future incidents rather than assigning blame.
Aircraft accidents on Mount Kilimanjaro are uncommon. The most recent recorded incident before this week occurred in November 2008, when an aircraft crash claimed four lives. The mountain’s altitude, rapidly shifting weather patterns and limited landing zones make aerial operations particularly demanding, especially above 4,000 meters where oxygen levels are low and winds can intensify without warning.
Mount Kilimanjaro rises to 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level and attracts tens of thousands of climbers annually. Several established trekking routes lead to the summit, and Barafu Camp—situated roughly 4,673 meters (15,331 feet) high—serves as the primary staging area for final ascent attempts. Rescue operations on the mountain typically involve carrying injured or ill climbers down on foot, but helicopters are sometimes deployed when medical conditions are critical or terrain conditions impede ground evacuation.
Medical evacuations require special authorization from park authorities and close coordination with aviation regulators. Aircraft must contend with thin air that reduces engine performance, while pilots navigate rugged terrain and limited visual references. Specialized training and equipment are essential to perform safe landings and takeoffs in such environments. The TCAA investigation will examine whether operational procedures and crew qualifications met regulatory standards.
Authorities have not yet released the identities or nationalities of the two foreign climbers pending notification of next of kin. Similarly, names of the Tanzanian doctor, guide and pilot are being withheld until families are informed. Police stated that recovery of the bodies was completed early Thursday, and efforts are underway to transport the remains to a medical facility in Moshi for formal identification.
Kilimanjaro Aviation, founded in 1999, operates helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft for tourism, cargo and emergency services across northern Tanzania. The company’s fleet includes specialized high-altitude helicopters equipped with stretchers and medical oxygen systems intended for rapid evacuation of injured climbers.
The crash comes during one of the peak climbing seasons when weather conditions are generally considered favorable. However, sudden storms, low visibility and strong winds can develop quickly above the treeline. Local guides frequently emphasize strict acclimatization schedules to reduce the risk of altitude sickness, a common reason for emergency evacuations.
The TCAA indicated that a preliminary report will be released within 30 days, with a final report to follow after comprehensive analysis. Investigators will collaborate with the aircraft manufacturer, Kilimanjaro National Park officials and any foreign aviation agencies representing the deceased passengers. Recommendations aimed at improving operational safety on high-altitude rescues are expected to be part of the final findings.
Crédito da imagem: Associated Press
