Kenya Airways Diverts Flights from JKIA Due to Heavy Fog

• Apr 17, 2025

Early this morning, heavy fog covered much of Nairobi, leading to flight disruptions at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). Kenya Airways announced that several flights bound for the airport had to be diverted to alternative locations such as Mombasa and Kilimanjaro.

The dense fog, which blanketed the capital, caused limited visibility at JKIA, prompting the airline to redirect some of its incoming flights. This measure ensured the safety of passengers and aircraft, as the fog made it difficult for pilots to land at the airport safely. Passengers affected by the diversions were informed and rerouted to alternative airports.

Kenya Airways, East Africa’s largest airline, has faced challenges in the past with weather-related disruptions, but this morning’s fog was one of the most significant weather events affecting flight schedules at JKIA recently. The airline's decision to divert flights was part of its ongoing efforts to prioritize safety in all weather conditions.

Flight diversions are not uncommon at airports worldwide during adverse weather conditions like thick fog, heavy rain, or snow, but they often cause significant delays for travelers. The diversions this morning added to the stress of passengers who were left with longer travel times and, in some cases, were required to make additional connections. Kenya Airways did not specify how many flights were affected by the diversion, but the airline assured customers that efforts were made to minimize the inconvenience.

Passengers scheduled to travel through JKIA today were advised to check their flight status for any updates, as the fog’s density varied throughout the morning. Despite the weather conditions, Kenya Airways worked to keep travelers informed and ensured that their re-routed flights landed safely in Mombasa or Kilimanjaro.

The weather in Nairobi eventually improved, and operations at JKIA were expected to return to normal later in the day. However, travelers are still urged to remain vigilant and confirm their flight details before heading to the airport.

This incident serves as a reminder of how unpredictable weather can impact air travel, highlighting the importance of flight safety and the challenges faced by airlines and airports in such conditions.