Pilot Josh Outram among seven killed in Samburu helicopter crash
A Eurocopter EC130 B4 helicopter crashed on August 19 at Mt. Ololokwe in Samburu County, resulting in the deaths of all seven people on board. Among the victims was Josh Outram, the pilot and founder of Africa Heli Adventures. The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority KCAA confirmed the aircraft, registered as 5Y-GYM, crashed around 0913 hrs local time. The KCAA stated the helicopter was traveling from Loisaba to Ewasonyiro, while a police report indicated it departed from Soyian in Laikipia en route to Loisaba Conservancy. The helicopter is believed to be owned by Lady Lori, a Nairobi-based aviation company. Samburu County Police Commander David Nkoroi reported thick smoke from the crash site. The other six occupants who died were Roger Duarte, Adam Navaty, Stephen Vasconquez, Henry Parra, Michael Contugi, and Suian Suarez. Outram, a fourth-generation Kenyan with over 15 years of flying experience, founded Africa Heli Adventures to showcase remote northern Kenya. His company also provided aerial support for wildlife monitoring and conservation efforts, including assisting Loisaba Conservancy and supporting the Reteti elephant sanctuary.
