Captain Saviemaria Ondego Narrates Her Experience Flying Raila Odinga Home

For Captain Saviemaria Ondego, October 16, 2025,was not an ordinary day in the skies.

As her flight on Kenya Airways Boeing 737-800 approached the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, she could feel the weight of the moment as she commanded the plane flying home the body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

“It really was a surreal experience,” she said. “Every day in our job is different, but that flight carried a heaviness — a sense of responsibility to the nation.”

Kenya Airways’ flight KQ 203 had departed India with Odinga’s remains, his family, and a delegation of 30 leaders. 

The Kenya Airways flight carrying the body of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga from Mumbai to Nairobi became the most tracked plane.

According to live air traffic monitoring service Flightradar24, flight KQ203 — a Boeing 737-800 — topped global tracking charts with over 10,800 people watching its progress from takeoff to landing.

The aircraft departed Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport at 6:23 a.m. Kenyan time and touched down at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at 9:30 a.m.

Captain Saviemaria Ondego Narrates How She Flew Raila Odinga Home

For Captain Ondego, being chosen to lead the flight was both emotional and humbling.

“I knew I had to go because I was representing Kenya,” she shared.

“It was an honour to ensure everything went smoothly and that Honourable Raila Odinga was brought home safely.”

When it came time to speak to the passengers, her emotions took over.

“I went to make the announcement, and nothing came out. I had to pause, take a breath, and then try again. My voice was shaky, but the words finally flowed,” she said.

Also Read: Kenya Airways Increases Nairobi–Kisumu Flights Amid High Demand

Her message was simple:

“On behalf of the Kenya Airways family, my deepest sympathies go to the family of Honourable Raila Odinga and to all Kenyans. Our hearts are with you.”

Looking back, Captain Ondego says the moment reminded her how deeply connected Kenyans are — even in sorrow.

“It wasn’t just a flight. It was a journey of love, honour, and unity,” she said.

Also Read: Mama Ida and Her Children Pay Emotional Tribute to Raila— Here’s What They Said

Captain Saviemaria Ondego’s Tribute to Raila Odinga

When Captain Saviemaria Ondego took hold of the intercom aboard the Kenya Airways Boeing 737-800, the cabin fell into a respectful silence.

Her voice, filled with emotion, carried a message to honour the late Raila Odinga.

“Ladies and gentlemen, this is your captain speaking. Today, we acknowledge a significant loss felt across Kenya and Africa. On behalf of the Kenya Airways family, we extend our deepest condolences on the passing of the Right Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga.

A visionary leader and a passionate Pan-Africanist, his influence transcended borders,
inspiring many through his dedication to peace and determination to address our continent’s challenges.

Raila Odinga was a respected leader in Kenya and a vital supporter of Kenya Airways.
His advocacy helped shape our growth in Africa, highlighting the role of aviation in driving economic change. His legacy will inspire us as we pursue greatness and unity in propelling Africa’s prosperity.

Our thoughts are with Mama Aida Odinga, the Odinga family, friends, supporters,
and all Kenyans during this difficult time. We honour and celebrate his legacy
as a leader who will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Thank you for your attention, and may the Right Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga rest in peace.”

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