Slovakian MP loses wife, two children in Ethiopian Airlines plane crash
11th March 2019
For what seems a tragedy to the world at large, an Ethiopian airline crushed Sunday killing all on-board. As worse as it could be for a Slovakian Member of Parliament however, he has lost his beloved wife Blanka, son, Martin as well as daughter, Michala.
The air disaster occurred six minutes after take off from Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa to its destination in the Kenyan capital, Nirobi.
All passengers and crew on board died.
"I announce with deep sadness that my beloved wife Blanka, my son Martin and my daughter Michala died in the air disaster in Addis Ababa", MP Anton Hrnko wrote in a post.
Transport CS James Macharia said there were nationals from 35 countries on board.
The plane is said to have lost contact near Bishoftu.
AFP reported that there was a massive crater at the crash site, with belongings and airplane parts scattered.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in a tweet said, "deepest condolences to the families of those that have lost their loved ones".
The cause of the disaster is still unclear. The airline, however, said the pilot had reported difficulties.
Ethiopian Airlines CEO Tewolde Gebremariam addressed the media at Bole airport, where he said "At this stage, we cannot rule out anything".
Records indicate the aircraft was new - it was delivered to Ethiopian Airlines in November last year.