Passenger fears eased on Monday evening after the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) confirmed that an aircraft involved in a taxiway incident at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) was safely recovered, with airport operations fully restored.
The incident occurred on Monday afternoon when a domestic flight arriving in Nairobi from Elwak airstrip in Mandera County veered off Taxiway Echo shortly after landing. The aircraft was carrying 50 passengers. KAA earlier confirmed that all passengers and crew were safely accounted for, with no injuries reported.
Emergency response teams were immediately activated in line with established airport safety procedures, swiftly bringing the situation under control.
Despite the incident, KAA maintained that airport operations continued normally, reassuring travelers during the busy holiday travel period.
In an official update statement issued on December 30, 2025, KAA announced that the aircraft had been successfully removed from the affected area.
“The aircraft that veered off Taxiway Echo has been safely recovered. The taxiway has since been reopened, and airport operations remain normal,” the authority said in the statement signed by Acting Managing Director and CEO Dr. Mohamud Gedi.
KAA thanked stakeholders for their cooperation and reaffirmed its commitment to safety, security, and operational efficiency across all airports under its management.
While investigations into the cause of the incident are ongoing, aviation experts note that taxiway incidences can result from factors such as weather conditions, mechanical issues, or human error and are subject to standard regulatory reviews.
JKIA, East Africa’s largest aviation hub, handles millions of passengers annually and serves as a critical gateway for regional and international travel.
In the latest assurance to travelers and airlines, KAA confirmed that the aircraft has been fully moved from the taxiway and that the runway and surrounding movement areas are safe and clear for normal use.
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