Normal operations have been restored at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) following a two-hour suspension caused by a security breach during the arrival of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's remains.
In an official statement released on Thursday, October 16, 2025, the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) announced that the airport has been declared safe for the resumption of flights and passenger services after security teams successfully resolved the situation.
"The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) wishes to inform the public and all aviation stakeholders that normal operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) have been fully restored following the earlier temporary suspension," the statement read.
The Director General of KCAA, Emile Arao, confirmed that the security incident that necessitated the precautionary closure has been addressed, and the airport is now secure for full resumption of operations.
KCAA expressed appreciation to travelers, airlines, and the general public for their patience and cooperation during the brief disruption, reaffirming the authority's dedication to maintaining the safety and efficiency of air transport operations in the country.
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Earlier on Thursday, airport operations were halted after a large group of mourners breached security protocols and gained unauthorized entry into restricted areas of the airport during the arrival of Raila Odinga's body.
Videos circulating online showed chaotic scenes as ODM supporters scattered across the airport grounds, prompting an immediate response from security forces.
Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Chief of Defence General Charles Kahariri was seen on site working to restore calm.
The intrusion took place just minutes before the casket was scheduled to be transferred from the aircraft to a gun carriage.
The Ministry of Health deployed 36 ambulances to provide emergency medical coverage during the reception of Raila Odinga's body at JKIA.
According to the Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Dr. Ouma Oluga, each ambulance was fully equipped with Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) facilities, and staffed with qualified paramedics, nurses, and drivers to ensure effective emergency response.
Additionally, a Port Health ambulance remained on standby at JKIA to provide supplementary medical support and coordinate with other responding teams.
In another turn of events, ODM has announced that the public viewing of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s body has been relocated from Parliament Buildings to Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, following an overwhelming turnout of mourners who had gathered to pay their last respects.
"Due to the surging number of mourners, the viewing of the body of HE Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga has been moved from Parliament buildings to Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani," ODM stated.
