Aviation PS explains why JKIA airspace temporarily closed

Mourners gather to receive the body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. [PCS]

More details have emerged on why the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport was temporarily shut during the arrival of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's body from India on October 16, 2025.

According to the latest update by the State Department for Aviation and Aerospace, the decision was arrived so as to uphold aviation security standards after the airport experienced an unprecedented surge of mourners seeking to receive the late leader.

This move, according to Principal Secretary, Aviation and Aerospace Development Teresia Mbaika was a coordinated response with all agencies operating at JKIA, including the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), Kenya Ports Authority (KAA) and security agencies to ensure operational standards were maintained despite the overwhelming crowds.

"It was necessary to restore confidence among operators, as the large crowd posed a risk of contamination within a secured environment arising from the access of large numbers to a secured area," the department stated

Adding that a thorough security sweep was conducted prior to the resumption of normal operations.

At the same time, the department under the Ministry of Roads added that the measure to close the airspace ensures continued compliance with the IICAO security protocols.

"It is important to ensure that we continue to meet the required international standards for our airport, and we reaffirm our commitment to adhere to all necessary measures," said Principal Secretary Mbaika.

On Thursday, a large crowd momentarily overpowered officers on duty; however, the mourners were requested to line up along the roads and proceed orderly out of the facility.