Kenya Airways has suspended flights to Mauritius due to an impending tropical cyclone, Garance, which is projected to bring severe weather including strong winds and heavy rainfall. The Mauritius Meteorological Service has issued a Class 3 cyclone warning, prompting significant flight disruptions as the primary airport closes. KQ prioritizes passenger safety and will indefinitely suspend flights until the situation stabilizes.
Kenya Airways (KQ), the national carrier of Kenya, has suspended flights to Mauritius due to the imminent threat posed by a tropical cyclone. The Mauritius Meteorological Service (MMS) has issued a Class 3 cyclone warning, indicating severe weather conditions that are expected to affect both Mauritius and La Reunion, with Cyclone Garance anticipated to approach in the coming days. This cyclone is likely to bring gale-force winds and heavy rainfall, prompting both islands to remain on high alert.
Significant disruptions are already being experienced in Mauritius, with the primary airport closing and many tourists left stranded. 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.” The closure of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU) has necessitated this decision, which is effective immediately.
KQ operates daily flights from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to Mauritius and will keep these flights suspended indefinitely until conditions allow for safe operations. The airline has communicated its understanding of the inconvenience posed to customers, as their safety and that of the staff remains a priority.
The MMS has warned that the cyclone may generate winds of approximately 40 kilometers per hour, with possible gusts reaching up to 100 km/h. Coastal areas may also endure very rough seas with wave heights of up to 7 meters. Cyclone Class 3, characterized by wind speeds of 120-165 km/h, poses a significant risk to infrastructure and safety, particularly during takeoff and landing of aircraft.
In summary, Kenya Airways has ceased flights to Mauritius due to the impending danger of Cyclone Garance, which is expected to impact the region severely. The airline’s decision, aimed at ensuring passenger safety, follows the closure of the main airport in Mauritius. KQ has expressed its commitment to monitor the situation closely and resume flights only when conditions improve.
Original Source: ntvkenya.co.ke
