Passenger dies aboard Kenya Airways flight from New York to Nairobi
KQ stated that it would work with the relevant authorities and the family to determine the cause of death.
An elderly passenger died mid-air while travelling aboard a Kenya Airways flight from New York to Nairobi, prompting the crew to divert the plane for emergency medical assistance.
The incident happened on Friday, aboard flight KQ 003.
According to a statement issued by Kenya Airways (KQ), the passenger developed a medical emergency around 8:40 am Kenyan time while the aircraft was en route to its final destination.
"Kenya Airways PLC (“KQ”) regrets to confirm the passing on of a passenger on flight KQ 003 operating from New York (JFK) to Nairobi (NBO) on Friday, 11th April 2025," the airline said in a statement released on Friday evening.
After the situation was reported to the airline’s operations control centre, the crew on board began emergency procedures.
Three medical professionals who were passengers on the flight offered to assist in the efforts to stabilize the patient.
As the emergency unfolded, the crew made the decision to divert the flight to Entebbe International Airport in Uganda in a bid to secure immediate medical attention for the unwell passenger.
Upon landing in Entebbe, medics were on standby to provide help and began efforts to resuscitate the passenger.
However, despite their intervention, the passenger was declared dead shortly thereafter.
"Despite sustained resuscitation efforts, the passenger was pronounced deceased by the attending medical professionals at 0910 hours East Africa Time (EAT), prior to landing," added KQ.
The airline did not disclose the identity of the deceased passenger, and details surrounding the medical condition remain unknown.
KQ stated that it would work with the relevant authorities and the family to determine the cause of death.
After the diversion and handling of the emergency, the aircraft continued with its journey to Nairobi.
It landed safely at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at 10:27 am.
"Kenya Airways is coordinating closely with the family of the deceased, local authorities, and aviation regulators to provide necessary support and determine the cause of death in line with applicable clinical protocols," the airline added.
In its statement, the national carrier expressed its condolences to the grieving family and assured the public that it prioritises the privacy and dignity of those affected.
"The airline extends its deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones affected by this tragic event. Privacy and dignity for all involved remain our utmost priority," concluded the statement.