Wed Jan 29 14:34:13 UTC 2025: ## Plane Crash in South Sudan Kills at Least 20
**BENTIU, South Sudan** – A passenger plane crashed in Unity State, South Sudan, on Wednesday, killing at least 20 people. Only one survivor has been confirmed.
The Ukrainian-made aircraft, chartered by the Greater Pioneer Operating Company (GPOC) and operated by Light Air Services Aviation Company, crashed approximately 500 meters from the airport in Bentiu shortly after takeoff at around 10:30 am local time (0830 GMT). It was en route to Juba.
The lone survivor, a South Sudanese engineer working at an oil field, is receiving treatment at Bentiu State hospital. According to the passenger manifest, the 21 people on board included 16 South Sudanese nationals, two Chinese citizens, and one Indian national – all GPOC employees.
Unity State’s Minister for Information, Gatwech Bipal Both, confirmed the tragedy and expressed deep sorrow. He stated that an investigation into the cause of the crash will be conducted, although initial speculation points towards a possible mechanical failure.
Graphic images circulating on social media show the wreckage of the plane, which is reportedly upside down in a field. While AFP has not independently verified the images, some appear to show a body protruding from the aircraft’s fuselage.
South Sudan, which gained independence in 2011, has a history of air accidents often attributed to factors such as overloading and poor weather conditions. The country’s underdeveloped transport infrastructure contributes to these risks. This latest incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the nation’s aviation sector.
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