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Flights Disrupted After Kenya Airways Aircraft Suffers Bird Strike

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Kenya Airways has confirmed flight disruptions between Nairobi and Cape Town after one of its aircraft suffered a bird strike on Friday, May 8, 2026.

In a customer update issued on May 9, 2026, the airline said the aircraft was flying from Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) to Cape Town International Airport (CPT) when a bird struck it upon arrival in South Africa.

The airline said the aircraft landed safely at around 1:55 p.m. East African Time.

However, after technical checks, engineers found significant damage to the radome -the protective structure at the front of the aircraft.

Kenya Airways said the aircraft was later declared Aircraft on Ground (AOG), meaning it could not continue operating until repairs and inspections were completed.

“The aircraft landed safely at Cape Town International Airport at approximately 1:55 p.m. (East African Time),” Kenya Airways said.

Kenya Airways Return Flight to Nairobi Affected

The airline noted that the incident disrupted the return flight from Cape Town to Nairobi.

Kenya Airways said its technical teams are working around the clock to inspect and repair the aircraft so it can return to service within the next 24 hours.

“Our technical teams are working around the clock to recover the aircraft to Nairobi within the next 24 hours,” the airline stated.

Also Read: Kenya Tightens Airport and Port Screening Over Hantavirus Fears

Passengers to Receive Travel Updates

Kenya Airways said it is communicating with affected passengers and arranging alternative travel plans where necessary.

The airline also apologized for the inconvenience caused by the disruption.

“We sincerely apologise to our guests for the inconvenience caused and appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to restore normal operations,” the statement added.

Also Read: How African Countries Will Benefit from the Africa Forward Summit

Safety Checks Underway

The airline emphasized that the aircraft is undergoing the required inspections and maintenance in line with standard safety and operational procedures.

“In line with standard safety and operational procedures,the aircraft is currently undergoing necessary inspections and maintenance,” read part of the statement.

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Kenya Airways Statement on Disrupted KQ flightsPHOTO/Kenya Airways

Kenya Airways Statement on Disrupted KQ flights
PHOTO/Kenya Airways

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