Kenya Airways Cancels Nairobi–New York Flights Over US Winter Storm
Kenya Airways has cancelled two scheduled flights between Nairobi and New York after severe winter weather disrupted operations at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport.
The airline said Flight KQ 002, due to depart Nairobi on 24 January, and the return service, Flight KQ 003 on 25 January, would not operate because of snowstorms affecting airport operations in the United States. Kenya Airways said that the decision was taken to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.
In a statement, the airline said its operations team was closely monitoring the situation and would continue to provide updates to affected travellers. It warned that further disruptions were possible, noting that services planned for 25 and 26 January could also be cancelled depending on weather conditions.
The cancellations come as a major winter storm affects large parts of the United States, causing widespread disruption to transport networks. Weather warnings have been issued across several states, from New Mexico to New England, as heavy snowfall, ice and extremely low temperatures impact travel.
Flight tracking data shows that more than 8,000 flights across the country have already been cancelled, with airports along the East Coast among the worst affected. New York, Washington DC, Philadelphia and Baltimore are expecting significant snowfall and freezing conditions
The World Meteorological Organisation has warned that hazardous weather is likely to continue through the weekend. In northern regions, wind chill temperatures have reached dangerous levels, while southern areas face the risk of severe ice accumulation. Several state governors have declared emergencies and advised residents to limit travel.
Kenya Airways said the disruption highlights how extreme weather in key international destinations can affect long-haul operations. The airline apologised to passengers and advised them to check for updates through its website, mobile app, customer service centres and official social media channels.
The airline added that the resumption of services on the Nairobi–New York route will depend on how quickly conditions improve in the United States, reiterating that safety remains its overriding priority.
