False reports claiming a helicopter crash occurred in Narok, Kenya, have been circulating on social media.
These reports- coming two weeks after a helicopter crash in Nandi killed six people, among them legislator Johana Ng’eno- caused apprehension. Some users circulated photos of a crashed helicopter, sparking concerns about the safety of its passengers.
The Kenya Times has dug into the truth about the reports.
After a spot check, verified sources, including aviation authorities and local Nepalese news outlets, confirm that the crash occurred in Khotang, Nepal, and is unrelated to any aviation incidents in Kenya.
Helicopter Crash in Eastern Nepal During Landing
On March 18, 2026, Nepalese authorities issued a statement confirming that the helicopter was engaged in a domestic transport mission in Nepal.
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The TIA Civil Aviation Office confirmed all flight details, including departure time, number of occupants, and exact location of the accident.
On March 18, 2026, an Air Dynasty helicopter, registration 9N-AFQ, crashed while attempting to land in Baluwesi, Khotang District, located 17 kilometers northeast of Khanidanda.
The aircraft, which departed from Kathmandu Airport at 11:09 AM local time, lost balance during the final stage of its descent and overturned upon touching the ground, according to an official statement by the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) Civil Aviation Office.
The helicopter was carrying six occupants, including one pilot and five passengers. Eyewitnesses reported that the aircraft appeared stable initially, but it tipped over during landing.
In a video shared by Fly30Aero, as reviewed by The Kenya Times, the helicopter lost control while airborne and later crashed.
Fly360Aero also shared the real-time images of the helicopter, the same images circulating with false Narok crash claims.
The incident caused minor injuries to one passenger, while the other passengers were unharmed.
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Following the accident, the injured passenger and the pilot were airlifted via helicopter to HAMS Hospital in Kathmandu at 12:42 PM for medical treatment, and the remaining four passengers were reported safe at the scene as confirmed by the TIA press release.
Officials noted that the rescue operations were conducted efficiently despite the remote and rugged terrain of Khotang District.
Emergency teams responded quickly to ensure that the injured passenger received timely medical attention.
The helicopter reportedly sustained structural damage from the overturn, but there were no fires or secondary hazards at the site.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with officials reviewing the mechanical condition, pilot actions, and environmental conditions, such as terrain and wind, at the time of landing.
