On May 30, 2024, Kenya Airways Flight KQ670, a Boeing 737-800, encountered a bird strike while approaching Kisumu International Airport (KIS) in Kenya. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges posed by bird strikes at Kisumu Airport, which has been identified as a high-risk area by Kenya’s Civil Aviation Authority.
The flight, registered 5Y-CYA, was operating a regional service from Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) to Kisumu, carrying [number] passengers and crew members. The 9.7-year-old aircraft, in service with Kenya Airways since October 2014, has accumulated [number] hours of flight time and has been maintained in accordance with the airline’s strict safety standards.
As the flight approached Kisumu Airport, strong winds forced the pilots to conduct two missed approaches to ensure a safe landing. On the third attempt, the aircraft suffered a bird strike, damaging the steering gear. Despite this, the flight crew managed to land safely on Kisumu runway 08, demonstrating their professionalism and expertise in handling emergency situations.
Due to the damage to the aircraft’s steering gear, it was unable to vacate the active runway. Passengers were disembarked using movable air stairs and transported by bus to the airport terminal, where they were provided with assistance and support by Kenya Airways staff.
Kisumu International Airport has a history of bird strikes, with several incidents reported in recent years. Kenya’s Civil Aviation Authority has identified the need for bird control measures at the airport, which is located near Lake Victoria and attracts a large number of birds. A recent incident on a Jambojet aircraft resulted in a passenger injury, highlighting the urgent need for effective bird control measures.
Kisumu International Airport, located northwest of the city, serves as the busiest airport in western Kenya and the country’s fourth international airport. It handles a significant volume of passenger and cargo traffic, making it a vital transportation hub for the region.
Kenya Airways and the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority have launched an investigation into the incident, which will examine the circumstances surrounding the bird strike and the aircraft’s landing. The airline has also taken steps to ensure the safety of its passengers and crew, including providing additional training on bird strike procedures and reinforcing its safety protocols.
The incident involving Kenya Airways Flight KQ670 highlights the importance of prioritizing safety in aviation. While bird strikes are a common hazard, effective measures can be taken to minimize the risk. Kenya Airways and the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority are committed to ensuring the safety of all passengers and crew, and will continue to work together to address the challenges posed by bird strikes at Kisumu Airport.
