The plane, on its way to Juba, crashed just three minutes into the flight, as confirmed by Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol. Among the deceased are five foreigners, including two Chinese, one Indian, and two Ugandan crew members, along with 15 South Sudanese nationals. The oil workers were employed by the Greater Pioneer Company (GPOC), a joint venture involving state-owned oil firms from China, India, Malaysia, and South Sudan. The aircraft was operated by Light Air Services Aviation Company.
While the cause of the crash remains undetermined, authorities are actively investigating the incident. Minister Chol expressed condolences, saying, "Our thoughts and condolences go out to the families and loved ones of those on board during this incredibly difficult time."
South Sudan faces ongoing challenges with its aviation infrastructure and safety standards, with incidents often attributed to issues such as overloading and adverse weather. Air disasters are common in the country; a previous accident in 2021 resulted in the deaths of five individuals when a cargo plane crashed near Juba.
While the cause of the crash remains undetermined, authorities are actively investigating the incident. Minister Chol expressed condolences, saying, "Our thoughts and condolences go out to the families and loved ones of those on board during this incredibly difficult time."
South Sudan faces ongoing challenges with its aviation infrastructure and safety standards, with incidents often attributed to issues such as overloading and adverse weather. Air disasters are common in the country; a previous accident in 2021 resulted in the deaths of five individuals when a cargo plane crashed near Juba.
