The airlines confirmed the death toll in a statement which read: "Precision Air regrets to confirm that 19 fatalities and 24 survivors have now been reported by the emergency services at the scene of the accident involving flight PW-494 which crashed at Lake Victoria in Bukoba today."

Thirty-nine passengers, which included one infant, and four crew members were present in the flight at the time of the mishap.

“Precision Air extends its deepest sympathies to the families and friends of the passenger and crew involved in this tragic incident. The company will strive to provide them with information and whatever assistance they will require in their difficult time,” the airline said in a statement.

“The names of passengers and crew on board the aircraft will not be released until all next-of-kin have been notified,” the statement further said.