The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has announced the temporary suspension of operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) after a major security breach occurred during the arrival of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga’s remains.
In a statement issued on Thursday, October 16, 2025, the authority confirmed that an overwhelming crowd of mourners forced their way into restricted airport zones in an attempt to pay their last respects to the late opposition leader. The unexpected surge of people prompted aviation and security authorities to initiate an immediate lockdown of the facility to restore order and ensure public safety.
“Operations at JKIA have been temporarily suspended due to an ongoing security situation following the arrival of the remains of the late Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga,” the statement read.
“A large number of mourners gained access to restricted areas, prompting a precautionary closure to allow security teams to restore order and ensure safety.”
KCAA advised travellers and the general public to stay away from the airport until further notice, noting that a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) had been circulated to relevant aviation stakeholders. The authority assured Kenyans that normal operations would resume once the airport was fully secured—a process expected to take approximately two hours.
“KCAA regrets any inconvenience caused and appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation during this period,” the statement concluded.
Security Breach at JKIA
The incident occurred amid intense national emotion as thousands of mourners gathered at JKIA to witness the arrival of Raila Odinga’s body from India, where he passed away while receiving treatment.
Despite stringent security measures, the massive turnout of supporters overwhelmed the barriers, forcing authorities to abandon planned military reception protocols.
According to initial arrangements, the flag-draped casket was to be received by President William Ruto, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, senior government officials, and ODM leaders in a formal military ceremony.
However, moments after the Kenya Airways flight RAO001 (previously KQ203) landed at 9:33 a.m., the situation spiralled out of control as thousands of emotional supporters broke through security cordons and surged onto the tarmac, chanting Raila’s name.
The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and airport security were forced to abandon the original protocol and swiftly escort the body to Lee Funeral Home, flanked by massive crowds that followed the convoy.
The suspension of airport operations underscores the magnitude of the public outpouring of grief for Raila Odinga—a leader whose influence transcended politics and whose passing has united Kenyans in mourning.
