The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has dismissed reports of a near-disaster incident involving Kenya Airways flight number KQ101 from London, Heathrow.
In a statement seen by The Kenya Times, KCAA Director General said they were alive to the situation involving a Kenya Airways B787 Dreamliner aircraft.
As per the authority, the flight was enroute to landing at the Jomo Kenya International Airport (JKIA) when the incident occurred on September 8.
However, the dedicated runway at the airport was not available for use at the moment, a factor KCCA notes forced the pilot to resort to the go-around procedure.
Furthermore, the aviation safety authorities allayed fears that the passengers were at risk noting that the go-around procedure is normal in the aviation field.
“At no time was the safety of the KQ aircraft and persons on board in jeopardy,” the statement read.
“The go-around by KQA101 was a normal procedure when the runway in use is not available for landing”.
The DG added, “The Authority endeavors to ensure the safety and security of the flying public, property, and operations remain paramount.”
Also read: Top Managers Fired After JKIA Blackout
False Alarm?
On Friday, September an X user identifying himself as Miona Spooner went public with information of the alleged mishap at the JKIA.
In his thread, Spooner narrated that he was among the passengers onboard the said flight when the incident took place.
He said that they were just about to touchdown when aircraft suddenly changed trajectory and started rising at a very sharp angle.
However, the aircraft gained altitude and the pilot notified the passengers that there was another plane on runway and hence his decision.
“I am so grateful to your pilot for his quick thinking, for keeping us safe and calm. I hope this situation gets fully investigated and addressed. We can’t wait for a tragedy to happen before there’s action,” the X user stated.
Also read:JKIA Mulls Strategy to Avert Power Blackouts After Firing of Boss
Kenyans’ reactions
Kenyans on social media had expressed their concerns on the matter, calling on KQ and other relevant authorities to clarify the incident.
“What a harrowing experience that must have been. I hope the truth will come out. Thank God for a competent team in the cockpit,” an X user commented.
Another one said, ” I can’t begin to imagine the scare and the trauma that comes with this. Grateful for the pilot’s steadfastness and I am glad you made it out safely.”
