Five people were killed after a medical evacuation helicopter crashed on a popular climbing route on Mount Kilimanjaro on Christmas Eve, local authorities confirmed.
The accident occurred Wednesday (24) evening between Barafu Camp and the Kibo Summit while the aircraft was evacuating two ill climbers. Although Africa’s highest peak rises to about 19,000 feet, police said the crash site was at an altitude of approximately 13,000 feet.
Those killed included the helicopter pilot, a local doctor, a tour guide, and two tourists from the Czech Republic, according to a statement issued by Tanzania National Parks. The crash reportedly resulted in a post-impact fire.
The aircraft involved was an Airbus Helicopters H125 (AS350 B3), registered 5H-KMA, operated by KiliMedAir Aviation under Savannah Aviation Limited.
Mount Kilimanjaro remains one of Africa’s most popular adventure destinations, attracting around 50,000 climbers each year. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the accident.
