Kenya Airways has suspended flights to Mauritius due to an approaching tropical cyclone, Garance, prompting concerns over safety and weather conditions. The Mauritius Meteorological Service has issued a Class 3 cyclone warning, triggering airport closures and disruptions. The airline has prioritized passenger safety and will resume services when conditions permit.
Kenya Airways (KQ), the national carrier of Kenya, has announced the suspension of its flights to Mauritius, attributing the decision to worsening weather conditions due to an imminent tropical cyclone. The Mauritius Meteorological Service (MMS) has issued a Class 3 cyclone warning for both Mauritius and La Reunion, as they prepare for Cyclone Garance, projected to impact the region on Thursday evening or Friday morning, alongside strong winds, heavy rainfall, and turbulent seas.
The approaching cyclone has already caused major disturbances, including the closure of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU), stranding numerous tourists. “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 stated. The airline assured travelers that their safety is a top priority during this period of uncertainty.
KQ typically operates daily flights to Mauritius from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. As the warning progresses, the cyclone may generate winds of approximately 40 kilometers per hour, with potential gusts reaching up to 100 kilometers per hour, ultimately leading to hazardous flying conditions. The severity of this Class 3 cyclone classification raises concerns for infrastructure and general safety.
The Mauritius government’s advisory noted that the strong winds and heavy rains would create perilous conditions for both takeoff and landing at airports. KQ has indicated that flights to Mauritius will remain suspended indefinitely until conditions stabilize and normal flight operations can resume. The airline expressed its sincere apologies to its customers for the inconvenience caused by these disruptions.
In summary, Kenya Airways has temporarily halted its flights to Mauritius due to the threats posed by Cyclone Garance. The cyclone has prompted the closure of the primary airport in Mauritius, affecting many travelers. KQ has emphasized the safety of its passengers and crew during this tumultuous period, with operations expected to resume only when normalcy is restored.
Original Source: ntvkenya.co.ke
