Skyward Airlines has issued a formal statement addressing recent media reports concerning its aircraft, registration number 5Y-SMK (DHC-8), which was alleged to have experienced difficulties in landing at Eldoret International Airport under unclear circumstances.
In a press release dated August 24th, 2025, Skyward Airlines Management has confirmed that the mentioned aircraft was not operating a commercial flight but was instead engaged in a routine crew training exercise.
Skyward Airlines flight incident
The management has clarified that the flight was being conducted strictly in line with aviation training requirements and regulatory standards, underscoring that such exercises are a routine part of maintaining operational safety and proficiency for airline crews.
Importantly, the carrier confirmed that there were no passengers on board during the training session, as the operation was exclusively intended for pilot and crew drills.
The airline further confirmed that the aircraft completed the training session without any operational challenges and later returned safely to Wilson Airport in Nairobi.
“We also confirm that the aircraft has since returned safely to Wilson Airport without any incident.”
According to the management, routine training flights are a key component of ensuring that flight crews remain adequately skilled to handle a wide range of flight scenarios.
Also Read: Ruto’s Govt Grants 10 Companies Exclusive License to Export Coffee
Such exercises are conducted periodically and are closely monitored to guarantee full compliance with the aviation regulator’s requirements.
The incident highlights the critical role of transparency in the aviation industry as airlines often rely on clear communication to dispel misinformation that can quickly spread through social media and traditional media platforms.
In this case, the quick response by Skyward Airlines served to clarify that the flight posed no risk to passengers, as there were none on board, and that the exercise was standard practice in the industry.
The airline has maintained a steady record of compliance with safety protocols, and its decision to promptly address the Eldoret reports shows its focus on maintaining public confidence.
Skyward Airlines has further reaffirmed its commitment to the highest standards of safety, professionalism and regulatory compliance.
Airplane Incidents in Kenya
Kenya’s aviation sector is currently under intense scrutiny following a troubling series of air accidents that have raised serious concerns about safety standards, regulatory oversight, and operational discipline.
On August 6th, 2025, a Cessna Citation 560 ambulance aircraft operated by AMREF Flying Doctors crashed into a residential area in Mwihoko, Nairobi, just minutes after taking off from Wilson Airport en route to Hargeisa, Somalia.
Also Read: Longhorn Publishers CEO Resigns After 7 Years
The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) confirmed the aircraft lost radio and radar contact three minutes after departure, leading to the death of all four people on board and two civilians on the ground.
In July 2025, a Kenya Air Force aircraft crashed shortly after departing Mombasa, killing two military officers after the plane disappeared from radar near Diani and crashed within 27 minutes of take-off.
In Kedong, a light aircraft crashed in Naivasha in January 2025, killing two people with poor weather and difficult terrain hampering rescue efforts.
Increasingly unpredictable weather, like wind shear, low visibility, and unpredictable rainfall, has made flying more dangerous, especially for older aircraft and in rugged terrain.
Aviation experts and international bodies are urging Kenya to modernize its safety systems, improve climate resilience, and enforce stricter maintenance protocols.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates.
