Kenya Airways Halts Flights to Mauritius Amid Cyclone Warnings

Kenya Airways has suspended flights to Mauritius due to Cyclone Garance, which is expected to bring severe weather conditions, including high winds and heavy rain. The Mauritius Meteorological Service issued a Class 3 warning, prompting KQ to temporarily halt operations following the closure of the main airport. The airline emphasizes safety and will update passengers as conditions change.

Kenya Airways (KQ), the national carrier, has suspended its flights to Mauritius due to the severe weather conditions caused by an impending tropical cyclone. The Mauritius Meteorological Service (MMS) has released a Class 3 cyclone warning for the islands of Mauritius and La Reunion, expecting Cyclone Garance to pass through the region by Thursday evening or Friday morning. This cyclone is anticipated to bring strong winds, heavy rainfall, and hazardous sea conditions.

The effects of Cyclone Garance have already led to considerable disruptions in Mauritius, including the closure of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU), which has stranded numerous tourists. In light of this, 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.”

KQ typically operates daily flights from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to Mauritius. In its statement, KQ emphasized that flights would remain suspended indefinitely until conditions improve. The airline expressed its sincere apologies to customers for any inconvenience, stating that the safety of passengers and staff is their utmost priority.

The MMS has warned of winds potentially exceeding 100 kilometers per hour, along with significantly rough seas, with waves reaching up to 7 meters. A Class 3 cyclone indicates a tropical cyclone with wind speeds ranging from 120 to 165 kilometers per hour, posing serious risks to transportation and safety. KQ urges travelers to stay informed about the cyclone’s developments as it prepares for possible travel disruptions.

In summary, Kenya Airways has suspended its flights to Mauritius in response to the threat posed by Cyclone Garance, following the issuance of a Class 3 cyclone warning. The airline prioritizes the safety of its passengers and staff, and it has committed to keeping customers informed as the situation evolves. Travelers are advised to monitor updates on the cyclone’s trajectory and impact on air travel.

Original Source: ntvkenya.co.ke