Engine failure caused Ogolla helicopter crash

By Newsflash Correspondent

The Ministry of Defence has concluded that the helicopter crash which claimed the life of former Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Francis Ogolla, was caused by an engine malfunction, ruling out earlier speculations about other possible contributing factors.

According to an official investigation report released by the ministry, the ill-fated Bell UH-1H-II Huey helicopter, tail number KAF 1501, crashed due to a failure within its engine system. The report follows a comprehensive inquiry by the Board of Inquiry, which was tasked with determining the exact circumstances that led to the tragic incident.

“Based on facts and evidence gathered, and indicated in the findings above, the Board of Inquiry is of the opinion that the Bell UH-1H-II (Huey) Helicopter KAF 1501 crashed due to engine malfunction,” the report stated, putting an end to weeks of speculation.

The crash occurred on April 18, 2024, in Sindar, Elgeyo-Marakwet County, at approximately 2:20 pm. It claimed the lives of ten military personnel, including General Ogolla, and left two others seriously injured. The helicopter was part of the 53 Tactical Helicopter Squadron under the Kenya Air Force.

Report rules out human error and weather

Since the accident, there have been conflicting reports and widespread speculation about what might have brought the aircraft down. Some reports had pointed to possible pilot error, sabotage, or poor weather conditions as potential causes. However, the ministry’s final report has now ruled out those possibilities.

Kenyan military choppers in action. Photo/ Tanzanian Times

Specifically, the Board of Inquiry found no issues related to aircrew performance, technical maintenance unrelated to the engine, mission planning and execution, or weather conditions. The report also dismissed any concerns regarding the character of the personnel, crew cooperation, or communication as possible contributing factors.

“The Board of Inquiry thoroughly examined all angles, including aircrew actions, mission planning, and environmental conditions. All of these were found to be within acceptable operational standards,” the report noted. “The aircraft’s engine showed signs of critical failure, which led to a loss of power and control.”

Safety protocols under review

The Bell UH-1H-II Huey II is a widely used military helicopter, known for its durability and reliability, but like all aircraft, it is not immune to technical failures. The ministry did not disclose the specific engine part that malfunctioned but indicated that further technical evaluations are underway to determine whether the problem was a one-off incident or part of a broader mechanical issue affecting the fleet.

In response to the findings, the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) is said to be conducting a review of its helicopter maintenance protocols and inspection schedules, particularly for the UH-1H Huey II models. The ministry also hinted at possible grounding of similar aircraft until all necessary safety assurances are in place.

Ogolla, who was appointed CDF in April 2023, had a distinguished military career spanning over three decades. His death was not only a devastating loss to the military fraternity but also sparked a period of national mourning. He was laid to rest with full military honors at his home in Siaya County.

The tragedy also prompted public calls for greater transparency in military operations and asset management, with some questioning the safety standards of the ageing air fleet used by the Kenyan military.

While the Ministry of Defence’s report offers some closure regarding the cause of the crash, it also raises broader questions about aircraft safety, maintenance protocols, and fleet modernization within the armed forces.

The full report has been shared with relevant stakeholders, including the families of those who perished, and the Ministry has pledged to implement all recommendations from the Board of Inquiry to prevent such tragedies in future.