Irungu Nyakera Slams JKIA Crisis After Being Stranded in Saudi Arabia

Former Principal Secretary Irungu Nyakera has raised concerns over the ongoing crisis affecting operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

In a brief statement on Monday, August 31, he said he was among passengers stranded in Saudi Arabia after their scheduled flight to Nairobi was cancelled.

Nyakera said the move left travellers uncertain about when they would be able to return to Kenya.

"I am currently stuck at the airport in Saudi Arabia after our flight to Nairobi last night was cancelled, with no idea when we will get home," he said.

Nyakera said the situation at JKIA was having wider economic consequences, pointing to the impact on tourists, cargo, businesses and other airport users.

"This JKIA mess is too costly for Kenya, with stranded tourists, delayed cargo, disrupted business operations and millions being lost by the hour," he added.

Nyakera called for urgent intervention by the country's leadership, stressing the importance of JKIA to the economy and international connectivity.

"JKIA is too important to our economy and the country’s leadership must step in and resolve this urgently," he further said.

On Sunday, August 30, the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) announced that some departing flights are experiencing delays at airports. 

In a statement, the authority said it is working with relevant agencies and stakeholders to manage the situation and minimize disruption. 

"Kenya Airports Authority PLC wishes to advise passengers and other airport users that some departing flights are currently experiencing delays at our airports.

"KAA is working closely with the relevant aviation agencies, airlines, and other stakeholders to manage the situation, minimize disruption, and facilitate the smooth flow of airport operations," the statement read.

KAA urged passengers to contact their respective airlines to get information on their flight status. 

"Passengers are advised to contact their respective Airlines for the latest information on their flight status and to plan their journeys accordingly," the statement added.

Further, KAA apologized for the inconvenience caused by the delays and appealed to passengers and other airport users for patience

"KAA regrets the inconvenience caused and appreciates the patience and understanding of passengers and other airport users as the situation is addressed," the statement further read.