A rescue helicopter crashed on Mount Kilimanjaro on the evening of March 27, 2024, resulting in the deaths of five individuals. The crash occurred while the helicopter was engaged in a medical evacuation mission on one of Tanzania’s most frequented climbing routes.
Local police reported that two of the deceased were foreign nationals, identified by Tanzanian media as Czech citizens. The victims included a local doctor, a tour guide, and the pilot of the aircraft. The incident took place at an altitude exceeding 4,000 meters (approximately 13,100 feet) between Barafu Camp and Kibo Summit, a popular area for climbers.
According to Kilimanjaro regional police commander Simon Maigwa, the helicopter was operated by Kilimanjaro Aviation, a company known for providing medical evacuation services among other aviation-related activities. The company has yet to release an official statement regarding the crash.
The exact cause of the accident remains unknown, and authorities are in the process of gathering further details. The Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority announced on March 28, 2024, that an investigation has commenced in accordance with international safety regulations. Their goal is to ascertain the circumstances and probable cause of the crash.
Mount Kilimanjaro, standing at nearly 6,000 meters (approximately 20,000 feet) above sea level, attracts around 50,000 tourists annually. While the ascent is generally not considered technically challenging, altitude sickness poses a significant risk for many climbers.
Aircraft accidents on Mount Kilimanjaro are uncommon, with the last recorded incident occurring in November 2008, which also resulted in fatalities. As investigations proceed, local authorities have pledged to provide more information as it becomes available.
