Kenya Airways Suspends Flights to Mauritius Due to Cyclone Risks

Kenya Airways has suspended flights to Mauritius following severe weather warnings due to Cyclone Garance. The cyclone is projected to cause gale-force winds, heavy rain, and hazardous seas. The Mauritius Airport is closed, stranding tourists, and KQ flights will be suspended until conditions allow for safe travel. The safety of customers and staff remains the airline’s top priority.

Kenya Airways (KQ) has announced the suspension of its flights to Mauritius due to worsening weather conditions from an impending tropical cyclone. The Mauritius Meteorological Service (MMS) has declared a Class 3 cyclone warning as Cyclone Garance approaches, expected to impact the region by Thursday evening or Friday morning. Consequently, Mauritius and La Reunion are under high alert for gale-force winds, heavy rainfall, and rough seas.

The cyclone has already caused significant disruption in Mauritius, including the closure of the primary airport and stranding numerous tourists. KQ stated, “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.” The suspension follows the closure of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU).

As KQ operates daily flights from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to Mauritius, the airline acknowledged the uncertainty regarding the cyclone’s duration and reiterated that flights would remain suspended until normalcy is restored. The airline expressed sincere apologies to affected customers, emphasizing that both passenger and staff safety remain a top priority.

The MMS reported that winds are expected to blow from the northeast at speeds of 40 kilometers per hour, with gusts growing stronger, reaching up to 100 kilometers per hour. The cyclone will also create hazardous seas with waves up to 7 meters high. Class 3 tropical cyclones exhibit wind speeds of 120 to 165 kilometers per hour, posing serious risks to infrastructure and transport. Strong winds and heavy rain render takeoffs and landings increasingly dangerous.

In summary, Kenya Airways has suspended flights to Mauritius due to the imminent threat of Cyclone Garance, which has led to significant disruptions and heightened safety concerns. The airline has committed to keeping customers informed and ensuring their safety as conditions unfold. Travelers should remain vigilant and updated through official channels regarding the cyclone’s progress and any further developments.

Original Source: ntvkenya.co.ke