Passengers on a Kenya Airways flight from Nairobi to Kisumu experienced a harrowing ordeal on Thursday May 30 as the plane attempted to land multiple times before stalling on the runway.
The incident occurred on Kenya Airways Flight KQ 670, which was scheduled to arrive at Kisumu International Airport at around 6:36 pm.
According to a passenger on board, city lawyer Silas Jakakimba, the pilot made two unsuccessful landing attempts before finally touching down on the third try.
“It actually had two aborted landings Kenya Airways, took several minutes airborne circling between Kisumu and Kericho. Landed on third attempt.”
Jakakimba also praised the pilots and crew of the aircraft for their well handling of the tense situation.
“People prayed. We thanked God for safety, and the pilot for doing his Best,” the passenger, Silas Jakakimba, shared on his X account.
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The plane, however, did not come to a complete stop on the runway, instead, it stalled due to a bird strike that affected the aircraft’s steering components.
Notably, a bird strike is when a flying bird collides with a moving aircraft and are a common occurrence in aviation.
All passengers and crew onboard however safely disembarked the aircraft, without any injuries.
Kenya Airways Issues Statement Confirming the Incident
Kenya Airways issued a statement addressing the incident. KQ confirmed that the plane had suffered a bird strike while landing at Kisumu International Airport.
The airline assured that all passengers and crew were safe and that they were working with relevant authorities to remove the aircraft from the runway and resume normal operations.
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“The aircraft landed safely in Kisumu; however, it was not able to exit the runway fully as the bird strike affected the aircraft steering components,” the statement read.
“All passengers and crew onboard since disembarked the aircraft and are safe.”
The airline further stated that it was providing updated travel information and assistance to passengers affected by the incident.
“Passengers on affected flights will be provided with updated travel information and assistance as needed.”
KQ’s management also apologized for any inconvenience caused and reiterated that passenger safety and comfort are its highest priorities.
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