KQ flights diverted to Mombasa due to low visibility

Kenya Airways has announced that it has diverted some of its flights to Mombasa's Moi International Airport due to low visibility at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

The national carrier said some of its flights were affected, with both departures and arrivals delayed as a result of weather conditions.

In a customer update issued on April 10, the airline said the situation had also caused a delay of some flights.

“We wish to inform our customers to expect some flight delays for departures and arrivals due to low visibility affecting operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport,” the airline said.

The national carrier said flight diversion was a necessary safety measure aimed at protecting passengers and crew.

“Flight diversion is a necessary safety precaution to ensure the safety of all onboard and remains our highest priority,” the airline said.

Low visibility, often caused by fog or heavy atmospheric conditions, can significantly affect aircraft landing and take-off, requiring pilots and air traffic controllers to take precautionary measures, including rerouting flights to alternative airports.

Kenya Airways said its operations team was closely monitoring the situation and would make adjustments once conditions improve.

“Our teams are closely monitoring the situation and will adjust our flight network and operations as soon as the weather conditions improve,” the airline said.

Passengers were advised to expect possible disruptions to travel schedules as efforts continue to manage the situation safely.

The disruptions at JKIA, the country’s main aviation hub, are likely to have a ripple effect on both domestic and international travel, especially for passengers connecting through Nairobi.

Airlines typically rely on clear visibility for safe landing procedures, particularly at busy airports such as JKIA, where traffic flow must be carefully coordinated.

The diversion of flights to Mombasa provided an alternative landing option, allowing aircraft to avoid prolonged holding patterns in the air while waiting for conditions to improve in Nairobi.

Kenya Airways apologised for the inconvenience caused to passengers and appealed for patience as the situation stabilises.

“We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused and appreciate our customers’ patience and understanding,” the airline said.