Kenya Airports Authority Refutes Report of Blackout at JKIA Amid Nationwide Power Outage

By Robert Mutasi 

The National Airports Authority (KAA) has strongly denied reports claiming that the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) was shut down during a major power failure that hit the country on Friday, August 31, 2024, night.

In an official statement issued on Saturday, August 31, 2024, KAA assured the public that the airport remained fully operational throughout the incident and that all necessary measures have been put in place to ensure uninterrupted service.

The power outage, which affected several parts of Kenya on Friday, raised concerns among travelers and stakeholders about the potential impact on critical infrastructure, including airports.

However, KAA moved quickly to clarify the situation, stressing that JKIA's operations were not affected.

"We assure the public that JKIA continues to operate fully, and passengers can expect seamless service throughout their travel experience," a statement from KAA read.

The authority reiterated its commitment to maintain the highest standards of safety and security for all passengers, noting that robust emergency plans are in place to handle any unexpected disruptions.

Rumors of blackouts at JKIA raised concerns, especially given the airport's status as a major hub in East Africa.

However, KAA insisted that its power backup systems worked as expected, ensuring that all essential operations, including air traffic control, lighting, and passenger services, continued without interruption.

KAA's assurance comes at a time when the reliability of electricity supply in Kenya is under scrutiny.

The blackout on Friday night was one of the most significant in recent months, affecting homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure across the country.

The cause of the blackout is still being investigated by the Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC), which has faced repeated criticism for such incidents.

Despite the wide-ranging challenges arising from power outages, KAA's quick responses and clarifications have helped to dispel fears among travelers and citizens.

The authority's prompt communication underscores its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the airport's operations, even in the face of unexpected challenges.

As one of the busiest airports in Africa, JKIA plays an important role in regional and international air travel.

The airport's ability to maintain operations during power outages is a testament to the efficiency of its infrastructure and the preparedness of its management to deal with emergencies.

In conclusion, KAA's prompt removal of reports of power outages and their assurance of continued service at JKIA highlights the organization's focus on passenger safety and operational excellence.

Travelers can continue to rely on JKIA for a smooth and safe experience, regardless of external challenges.