A passenger plane crash near Somalia has shocked the world, but thankfully, all 55 people on board survived. The terrifying incident happened just after takeoff from Mogadishu, and dramatic footage captured the plane floating in the Indian Ocean as passengers scrambled to safety. Here’s everything we know so far.
Passenger Plane Crashes Into Indian Ocean Near Mogadishu
A StarSky Airline flight carrying 55 passengers and crew crashed into the Indian Ocean moments after taking off from Aden Adde International Airport, Mogadishu. The incident took place on a Tuesday and was reportedly caused by a technical issue that prevented the aircraft from gaining proper altitude.
Terrifying Moments Captured on Video
Shocking video footage taken by a bystander showed the plane floating in the water not far from the beach. One of its wings had snapped clean off, and several passengers were seen climbing out of the wreckage and into the ocean as the aircraft slowly drifted toward the Somali shoreline.
Rescue Operations and Safe Evacuation
Rescuers responded within minutes and began assisting passengers. Despite the crash, there were no fatalities. The Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA) confirmed that all 55 people on board—both passengers and crew—were safely evacuated. Airport authorities said their main concern was to prevent a fire after the impact, considering how close the crash was to the sea.
Flight Was Unable to Gain Altitude
According to witnesses, the plane was flying unusually low right after takeoff. People walking along Jasiira Beach said they saw the aircraft skim over the water before making a crash landing near the shore. The flight was reportedly trying to return to the airport but veered off the runway during its emergency landing attempt.
The aircraft was en route to Guriel, Somalia’s second-largest city.
Airport Temporarily Closed
Following the crash, Aden Adde International Airport was closed for a short time to allow emergency services to access the crash site. However, normal operations resumed later the same day. Authorities have launched a formal investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash.
Deadly Crash in Australia Days Earlier
The Somalia crash came just days after a deadly accident in Southern Australia, where another small aircraft nose-dived into the ocean, killing all three men on board. The victims included two teenagers—aged 18 and 19—and a 57-year-old pilot.
A fisherman who witnessed the Australian crash told reporters that the plane looked like it was doing stunts before it suddenly dropped. He described a massive splash as the plane hit the water and noticed the wings breaking apart during impact. Despite calling for help immediately, rough sea conditions made rescue operations difficult.
Emergency services used helicopters, jet skis, and boats to recover the bodies. The wreckage of the aircraft was later pulled to shore.
