Kenya is among the nations affected by widespread international flight disruptions, as airlines report cancellations and delays on major routes across the Middle East and East Africa.
The disruptions have caused significant interruptions for travellers, especially those using Nairobi as a departure or connecting hub.
According to Travel and Tour World, Saudia, the flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, also found itself at the heart of the chaos, with one of its flights from Nairobi to Jeddah cancelled and 19 others delayed due to a combination of operational difficulties and adverse weather conditions.
Major Airlines and Cancelled Flights
More than nine flights have been cancelled and over seventy delayed across Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kenya, Syria, Tanzania, and other regions.
Airlines affected include Emirates, Saudia, Qatar Airways, Flydubai, and Air Arabia.
These disruptions have impacted passengers travelling through key airports such as Dubai International, Hamad International in Doha, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, and King Abdulaziz International in Jeddah.
In Kenya, flights to Saudi Arabia and the Gulf states experienced interruptions, including the cancellation of a route from Nairobi to Jeddah.
Also Read: Kenyans to Enjoy Cheaper Flights from Nairobi to Saudi Arabia
Several passengers travelling to and from Dubai, Doha, and Zanzibar were left stranded or forced to reschedule their journeys.
Causes of Disruption
The delays and cancellations have been attributed to a combination of operational challenges and adverse weather conditions.
Airlines are facing pressure from increased passenger numbers, staffing issues, and aircraft scheduling complications.
Weather-related challenges, such as heavy rains, poor visibility, and sudden climatic changes, have intensified the disruption in cities like Dubai and parts of East Africa.
Regional routes connecting Dubai, Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, Jeddah, and Aleppo experienced the highest number of interruptions.
These delays affected both inbound and outbound flights, causing ripple effects on connecting journeys to Asia, Europe, and other parts of Africa.
Impact on Travellers and Travel Operations
Passengers traveling through Kenyan airports are experiencing long wait times, missed connections, and limited rebooking options.
Also Read: Kenya Airways Increases Nairobi–Kisumu Flights Amid High Demand
Airports have recorded congestion at customer service desks as travellers seek alternative flights or travel dates.
Those with non-refundable bookings and strict travel schedules have been the most affected.
Travel operators and airlines are advising passengers to regularly monitor flight updates through their airline websites and mobile applications.
Travellers are also urged to prepare for extended waiting times by keeping essential items in their carry-on luggage.
Some airlines offer accommodation, meals, or rebooking arrangements, depending on the ticket terms and operational capacity.
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