An aircraft crash-landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Thursday, triggering an emergency response and causing moments of panic among passengers, airport staff, and onlookers.
Emergency teams from the Kenya Red Cross and the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) were swiftly deployed to the scene following reports of the incident. Rescue operations were still ongoing at the time of publication, with authorities yet to confirm the number of passengers on board or whether there were any fatalities.
In a brief statement, the Kenya Red Cross confirmed that its emergency response teams had been activated and were coordinating rescue efforts alongside other agencies.
“Emergency teams are on the ground responding to an aviation incident at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Assessment and rescue operations are ongoing,” the agency said.
The Kenya Airports Authority also acknowledged the incident, assuring the public that all relevant emergency protocols had been activated to ensure the safety of passengers and airport personnel.
Witnesses at the airport described scenes of confusion as emergency vehicles, including ambulances and fire engines, raced toward the affected section of the airport shortly after the aircraft encountered difficulties during landing.
“It was a frightening moment. We saw emergency vehicles rushing across the runway and people gathering to see what had happened,” one witness said.
The cause of the crash-landing remains unclear, and aviation investigators are expected to begin a detailed assessment once rescue and recovery operations are completed.
Airport authorities have urged members of the public to remain calm and avoid speculation as officials work to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
JKIA is East Africa’s busiest aviation hub, handling thousands of passengers and cargo flights daily. Any disruption at the airport often has a significant impact on regional and international travel schedules.
More details are expected to emerge as authorities provide updates on the condition of those involved and the extent of the damage sustained by the aircraft.
Also Read: Plane Crash-Lands at JKIA as Rescue Teams Launch Emergency Operation