Summary:
- Kenya Airways experienced flight disruptions as poor visibility prevented the landing of KQ478 in Kigali, leading to a safe return to Nairobi, while another flight to Dubai, KQ310, turned back due to runway debris detected by air traffic control at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
Nairobi, Kenya | THE BLACK EXAMINER | Kenya Airways has officially reported that its flight 478 underwent an unexpected return to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport mere hours after takeoff. The airline disclosed that adverse weather conditions thwarted the planned landing in Kigali, rendering the crew’s efforts futile due to poor visibility.
Flight KQ478, en route to Rwanda, found itself unable to touch down at Kigali International Airport due to inclement weather, specifically heavy fog enveloping the capital city of Rwanda. Despite valiant attempts by the flight crew to land the aircraft, the prevailing weather conditions prompted a decision to prioritize passenger safety, leading to the aircraft’s return to Nairobi.
In a statement issued by Kenya Airways, the airline expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to passengers, elucidating that the flight encountered low visibility and worsening weather during its normal approach to Kigali International Airport. Following two unsuccessful landing attempts, the crew judiciously opted to return to Nairobi, ensuring a safe landing at 09:50 hrs (East African Time).
Passengers affected by the incident are being promptly transferred to the next available flight, and Kenya Airways emphasized that air turnbacks are standard safety protocols. The airline sincerely apologized to its guests and reassured them that their safety, along with that of the crew, remains the highest priority.
In a separate incident, Kenya Airways detailed an occurrence involving a flight bound for Dubai. On December 15, the airline disclosed that Jomo Kenyatta International Airport’s air traffic control observed tyre debris on the runway during a routine inspection. Subsequent investigation revealed that the debris originated from KQ flight 310, scheduled for Dubai.
Kenya Airways confirmed that, upon identifying the issue, the crew of KQ 310 adhered to safety procedures, guiding the aircraft safely back to Nairobi. The airline underscored its commitment to passenger safety, emphasizing the implementation of stringent safety measures and apologizing for any disruption caused by these unforeseen circumstances.
