Investigators to ship key parts abroad in Youth Aviation crash investigation

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Department said the probe is being conducted under Annex 13 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation, which sets international standards for air accident investigations.

Acting director Fredrick Kabunge said investigators have secured key components from the crash site which are expected to aid the inquiry.

The recovered parts will be shipped out of the country for metallurgical examination and, where necessary, data download and analysis.

Kabunge said the investigation will be conducted impartially and independently, in full compliance with Annex 13, adding that details on the flight operation, aircraft type and engine specifications will be forwarded to the manufacturer.

He said the manufacturer has indicated it will appoint an accredited representative to take part in the investigation in line with international protocols.

The department said a preliminary report will be issued within 30 days, as required under civil aviation regulations.

Meanwhile, authorities said all bodies recovered from the crash site have been positively identified and moved to the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital mortuary ahead of airlifting to Nairobi, where postmortem examinations will be conducted.