Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has dispelled reports that a Qatar Airways aircraft encountered severe turbulence before landing at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
In a statement on Monday, May 6, KAA labelled reports stating so “false” and cautioned members of the public against spreading misinformation.
The statement came in response to reports circulated on social media on Monday claiming that a flight from Doha to Kilimanjaro was forced to make an emergency landing after experiencing upheavals.
One report allegedly received from a traveler onboard the said aircraft claimed that the flight experienced severe turbulence while in the Somali air space due to weather conditions.
Consequently, the report added, the plane suffered internal damage while some of the passengers onboard sustained injuries and later transferred to Nairobi hospital for treatment.
Photos shared alongside the post also showed broken parts of the plane’s interior manifesting signs of possible impact in the plane.
KAA warns against misinformation on aviation
However, KAA said the reports were inaccurate and challenged members of the public to verify the accuracy of information before sharing it on social media platforms.
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According to the authority, misinformation on matters surrounding aviation and safety of flights can cause confusion and panic among travelers.
“We urge the public to exercise caution and verify the accuracy of information before sharing it on social media platforms,” stated KAA.
“Spreading false information can cause unnecessary panic and confusion among travelers and the general public.”
Some international news organization also carried the story on their platforms to further compound questions on what could have rocked the aircraft.
Also Read: JKIA Changes Access Points After Flooding Incident
Qatar Airways was, however, yet to comment on the reports by the time of this publication. Recent weather patterns have had effects on normal aviation activities in the recent past with several airlines and flights being redirected to other airports.
On April 27, for instance, Kenya Airways announced a decision to divert flights destined for the Jomo Kenyatta Airport in Nairobi to other airports citing poor visibility at the major gateway to Nairobi.
KAA had also announced disruptions of normal activities at the JKIA after the heavy rains that left sections of the airport flooded.
However, all terminals at the facility remained largely accessible, despite the floods and leaking roof that had sparked online rage against the management authority.
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