Defence report: Huey helicopter involved in Ogolla crash had reliable performance
Despite the aircraft’s good history, investigators found that it developed a serious engine problem while in the air, which led to a complete power failure.
The helicopter that crashed and killed Chief of Defence Forces General Francis Ogolla had been dependable and had performed well in earlier missions, a Defence Ministry report has revealed.
The Bell UH-1H-II (Huey) Helicopter, known as KAF 1501, had been used in different military activities, including transporting top officials and carrying out training exercises.
According to the report released on Friday, "the Huey Helicopter KAF 1501 was assessed to have had a relatively high level of reliability, having conducted several operational and training missions, including VIP flights."
Military officials said the aircraft was being flown by well-trained crew at the time of the crash.
"Further, the flight was operated by qualified, competent crew," the statement said.
The helicopter went down on April 18, 2024, in Kaben, Marakwet East.
General Ogolla was among 12 people on board, most of them senior military officers. Only two people survived the crash.
Despite the aircraft’s good history, investigators found that it developed a serious engine problem while in the air, which led to a complete power failure.
After the crash, witnesses said the helicopter caught fire. The wreckage was found in a remote area.
In its conclusion, the inquiry team said the crash was caused by engine malfunction.
"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