Four people were killed after a small aircraft crashed near the Sossusvlei area of Namibia, according to local charter operator Desert Air.

The company stated that the light aircraft, which had been reported missing on Sunday, was found crashed on Monday morning in the Sossusvlei region, a well-known tourist destination in Namibia’s Namib Desert.

Those killed in the crash included the pilot and three passengers on board the aircraft.

Desert Air said the cause of the crash remains under investigation and urged the public to avoid speculation until aviation authorities release preliminary findings.

The Sossusvlei region, known for its towering red sand dunes and desert tourism, is one of Namibia’s most visited travel destinations and frequently served by charter flights carrying tourists and local travelers.

Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the identities or nationalities of the victims.

Namibian aviation officials are continuing efforts to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash. (ILKHA)