Kenya Airways Suspends Flights to Mauritius Amid Cyclone Warning

Kenya Airways has suspended flights to Mauritius due to a Class 3 cyclone warning issued as Cyclone Garance approaches. The cyclone is predicted to bring strong winds, heavy rainfall, and dangerous sea conditions, prompting the closure of the main airport. KQ will continue the suspension until safe travel is assured, prioritizing passenger safety.

Kenya Airways (KQ) has temporarily suspended its flights to Mauritius due to concerns over worsening weather conditions linked to an imminent tropical cyclone. The Mauritius Meteorological Service (MMS) has issued a Class 3 cyclone warning for Mauritius and La Réunion, indicating a high level of risk associated with Cyclone Garance, expected to impact the region shortly. The cyclone is forecast to bring strong winds, heavy rainfall, and rough seas, necessitating heightened safety measures.

The cyclone has prompted significant disruptions across Mauritius, including the closure of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, leaving numerous passengers stranded. In their official statement, KQ expressed regret for cancelling flights: “Due to the urgent cyclone warning issued by the government’s weather department, we regret to inform our customers that we have temporarily suspended flights to Mauritius effective immediately.”

KQ operates regular flights from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to Mauritius. The airline has committed to maintaining this suspension until conditions return to normal, affirming their priority regarding customer and staff safety. The MMS warns that Cyclone Garance may bring winds of approximately 40 kilometers per hour, with gusts potentially reaching 100 kilometers per hour, posing a threat to aviation safety.

Furthermore, the cyclone may generate waves up to seven meters high in the region’s waters, raising concerns about maritime safety as well. A Class 3 cyclone is characterized by wind speeds of 120 to 165 kilometers per hour, which can lead to extensive damage and infrastructural challenges. KQ advises that the ongoing weather risks make takeoff and landing exceedingly hazardous, thus justifying their flight cancellations.

In summary, Kenya Airways has suspended flights to Mauritius due to the high risks associated with Cyclone Garance, as indicated by the Mauritius Meteorological Service. The closure of the main airport and the warning of severe weather conditions highlight the critical need for safety precautions. KQ remains committed to resuming flights once conditions normalize, prioritizing the safety of their passengers and crew.

Original Source: ntvkenya.co.ke