Kenya Airways Flight Recalled to JKIA Over Suspected Biological Hazard

A Kenya Airways flight bound for Dar es Salaam was abruptly recalled to Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Sunday following the detection of a suspected biological hazard in the cargo hold. 

The incident prompted a swift response from both the airline and health authorities. Flight KQ484, which departed JKIA at 12:48 PM, was scheduled to arrive at Julius Nyerere International Airport in Tanzania at 2:00 PM. However, just 25 minutes into the flight, while overflying Chyulu Hills in Makueni County, the aircraft was ordered to return to Nairobi. 

The decision was prompted by reports of potential exposure to hazardous biological material, specifically Mycobacterium tuberculosis, originating from cargo transported on a previous flight. Upon its return to JKIA at 1:40 PM, the aircraft was met by medical personnel and health officials who swiftly implemented safety protocols. Passengers were briefed on the situation, and their contact information was recorded as part of precautionary measures. 

The cargo hold underwent thorough fumigation to neutralise any potential risk before the flight could resume its journey. Kenya Airways, in an official statement, described the incident as a "medical emergency" without divulging specific details about the nature of the emergency. 

The airline emphasises that all necessary health and safety protocols had been adhered to and that the safety and well-being of its passengers and crew remained its top priority. During the delay, which extended for more than two hours, passengers expressed confusion and anxiety. 

Stranded on the tarmac from 1:40 PM to 3:45 PM, they awaited clearance for the flight to proceed. By 3:54 PM, the aircraft was deemed safe, and it resumed its journey to Dar es Salaam.