South Sudan plane crash kills 20, including foreign nationals

KATHMANDU: A tragic plane crash in South Sudan’s Unity State has claimed the lives of 20 people, including foreign nationals, after a small aircraft crashed on takeoff from an oilfield airport.

The incident occurred at the Rubkona Airstrip, near the oil-rich Bentiu region, in the northern part of the country.

Details of the Crash

The ill-fated aircraft, a small chartered plane belonging to a private operator, was transporting oil workers when it crashed shortly after taking off. Witnesses at the scene reported that the aircraft struggled to gain altitude before plummeting to the ground and bursting into flames.

Local authorities confirmed that there were 21 people onboard, including the flight crew. Out of them, 20 lost their lives, while one person miraculously survived and is currently receiving medical treatment at a hospital.

“The crash occurred moments after the aircraft took off. It appears the plane was unable to climb properly and then crashed near the runway,” said a local official from Unity State.

Casualties and Nationalities

Among the deceased, two were Chinese nationals, and one was an Indian citizen. The remaining victims included South Sudanese oil workers and crew members. The identities of all the victims have yet to be officially released by authorities.

The lone survivor, whose condition remains critical, is being treated in the capital, Juba.

Possible Causes Under Investigation

The exact cause of the crash is yet to be determined. Aviation authorities and investigators have been deployed to the crash site to examine possible technical failures, weather conditions, and other factors that may have led to the accident.

Initial reports suggest that the aircraft might have been overloaded or experienced mechanical difficulties during takeoff. However, officials have not ruled out poor weather conditions as a contributing factor.

Reaction from Authorities and Companies

South Sudan’s Civil Aviation Authority has launched an official investigation into the crash. “We are working with relevant authorities and experts to determine the cause of this tragic accident,” said a spokesperson for the aviation department.

The aircraft was reportedly chartered by a Chinese oil company operating in the region. The company expressed its condolences to the families of the deceased and assured full cooperation with the investigation.

Past Aviation Incidents in South Sudan

This is not the first time South Sudan has witnessed a deadly plane crash. The country has a history of aviation accidents due to poor infrastructure, outdated aircraft, and weak regulatory enforcement.

In 2020, a cargo plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Juba International Airport, killing eight people. Similarly, in 2018, a commercial aircraft crashed into a lake, resulting in 19 fatalities.

The latest crash once again raises concerns about aviation safety in South Sudan. As investigations continue, authorities and aviation experts are calling for stricter regulations and better safety measures to prevent further tragedies.