National carrier Kenya Airways (KQ) has announced flight disruptions expected on Thursday, December 12, 2024, at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
KQ in a statement said that minor disruptions are expected following a runway closure at JKIA to facilitate military drills in relation to the ongoing Jamhuri day celebrations.
President William Ruto is leading the nation in marking this year’s Jamhuri Day at the Uhuru Gardens Museum and National Monument, commemorating 61 years since Kenya became a republic on December 12, 1964.
During the celebrations, the Kenya Air Force conducted a fly-past over the venue which explains the drills.
KQ in the statement said that it anticipates to recovering to normal operations due to the planned disruptions by 7pm Thursday.
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Statement by Kenya Airways
“Due to the runway closure at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) for military drills relating to Jamhuri Day celebrations, we anticipate minor disruptions for some of our flight departures and arrivals at JKIA. We anticipate recovering our normal operations by 7pm today.
We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience this may cause to your travels. Please be assured that our teams are dedicated to doing everything possible to facilitate a smooth travel experience for you.”
For the passengers’ convenience and to keep them informed, KQ advised them to regularly check its website’s Flight Status (Kenya-airways.com) or get in touch with the Customer Excellence team via +254711024747; Whatsapp +254705474747 or X @KQSupport
“Rest assured, our customers’ and staff’s safety and well-being are our top priorities. We are unwavering in our commitment to providing a safe and comfortable travel experience for you,” added KQ.
Notably, the statement by Kenya Airways comes days after the national carrier announced a new international direct route from Nairobi beginning July 2025.
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Through a press release dated December 9, KQ said it will have direct flights from Nairobi to Gatwick, London.
“Starting 2nd July 2025, Kenya Airways (KQ) will begin operating direct flights to London’s Gatwick Airport from its hub at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA),” read the statement in part.
The introduction, according to KQ is meant to increase the airline’s London frequency to ten weekly flights.
Jamhuri day celebrations
President Ruto on Thursday presided over the Consecration, Presentation, and Trooping of the Colours by the Wajir Air Base (WAB).
The military event also took place at the Uhuru Gardens Museum and National Monument where Ruto is leading the nation in commemorating the Jamhuri Day celebrations.
The ceremony began with Ruto inspecting a Guard of Honour mounted by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), including the Kenya Army, the Kenya Air Force (KAF), and the Kenya Navy, accompanied by the KDF Band.
He was joined by Chief of Defence Forces, General Charles Kahariri.
WAB is a Forward Operating Base (FOB) for the Kenya Air Force’s Rapid Deployment Squadron, a special forces unit within the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
The unit is primarily tasked with the recovery of downed airmen in hostile territory. It is also capable of carrying out other specially assigned missions.
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