Loisaba Conservancy has mourned Josh Outram, the pilot who died in a helicopter crash in Samburu County on Wednesday, describing him as an accomplished aviator and dedicated conservationist.
Outram flew for Loisaba as a pilot between 2020 and 2023, supporting the conservancy’s conservation and security operations.
According to the conservancy, he was involved in elephant rescues, aerial surveillance for security teams and responding to emergencies involving people and wildlife.
He also played a role in efforts to establish the Loisaba Rhino Sanctuary, including the construction of its perimeter fence.
Outram, a fourth-generation Kenyan, had more than 15 years of experience flying in Kenya’s conservation and commercial aviation sectors.
Loisaba said his colleagues and clients knew him for his flying skills, professionalism and calmness while operating in some of the most challenging conditions in East Africa.
Although he left his position at Loisaba in 2023 to establish his own charter operation, the conservancy said he continued living in the area and remained part of its community.
He also continued offering assistance during emergencies involving wildlife and people.
“Kenya has lost not only an outstanding and passionate aviator, but a dedicated conservationist who gave much of his life and career to protecting its wildlife and wild places,” Loisaba said.
The conservancy described Outram as generous with his time and knowledge and deeply committed to conservation.
It conveyed its condolences to his family and friends, as well as those of other victims of the crash.
The crash occurred on Wednesday, August 19, near Mount Ololokwe in the Kirish area of Samburu County.
The helicopter was reportedly travelling from Loisaba to Ewasonyiro when it went down in the rugged terrain. Seven people, including the pilot and six tourists, died in the accident.
The helicopter, identified as a Eurocopter EC130 B4, was carrying tourists on what was believed to be a safari-related flight.
Five of the victims were confirmed as American citizens, while Ecuador identified its intelligence chief, Michele Sensi-Contugi, and his wife, Stephany Hollihan, among those killed.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
The Air Accident Investigation Department under the Ministry of Roads and Transport is leading the probe, with the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority coordinating the response with other agencies.
