A tragic plane crash in South Sudan has claimed the lives of all 14 individuals on board, according to the South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority. The aircraft, operated by CityLink Aviation Ltd, was traveling from Yei to the capital, Juba, when it lost contact approximately 30 minutes after take-off.
All Passengers and Pilot Dead
The victims include the pilot and 13 passengers, comprising 12 South Sudanese nationals and two Kenyans. The crash occurred about 20 kilometers south-west of Juba. Authorities confirmed that there were no survivors.
Weather Conditions Blamed
Preliminary investigations suggest that adverse weather conditions, particularly poor visibility, may have contributed to the crash. The South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority stated that the crash site has been secured, and a team has been dispatched to determine the exact cause.
“Initial reports have suggested the aircraft may have come down due to adverse weather conditions, especially low visibility,” the authority said in a statement.
Ongoing Investigation
Emergency responders and investigators are at the scene to recover remains and examine the wreckage. A full inquiry has been launched to uncover the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Renewed Safety Concerns
The incident has reignited concerns about aviation safety in South Sudan, where crashes are often linked to weather, overloading, or aging aircraft. In a similar tragedy in January 2025, 20 oil workers died when a plane crashed near Unity State oil fields shortly after take-off.
Officials acknowledge that improving aviation safety standards remains a significant challenge in the country.
