A couple of weeks ago, this newspaper expressed concern over the safety of Wilson Airport and the planes operating from it.

Aviation and airport authorities were quick to rebuff our arguments.

But the matter is not easing. Yesterday, a cargo plane crash-landed at the airport, killing a pilot and critically injuring the co-pilot.

In quick succession, four plane tragedies have been recorded at the airport in as many months. Still, these have not convinced the authorities that something is terribly awful at this tiny but busy airport.

The matter needs critical examination. First is the condition of the airport, whose runaway cannot be expanded as the land earmarked for that is all but taken up for human settlement largely under controversial circumstances.

Second, there is little evidence to suggest proper policing of the planes operating from the airport. It is not clear whether they are properly maintained and in sound mechanical condition.

Third, the airport hosts many aviation training institutions, which, though they generally operate quite professionally, require constant monitoring.

The tragedies at Wilson Airport cannot be wished away. There is a sense in which negligence plays a part.

Clearly, Kenya Airports Authority, Kenya Civil Aviation Authority and the Ministry of Transport must provide us with answers.