ENTEBBE, Uganda — A Kenya Airways flight travelling from Entebbe to Nairobi was forced to return to Uganda shortly after take-off on Sunday morning following a bird strike incident.
In a statement issued on May 24, 2026, the airline confirmed that flight KQ421 experienced a bird strike at approximately 10:02 a.m. East African Time, moments after departing from Entebbe International Airport.
According to the airline, the flight crew immediately activated standard safety procedures and informed passengers before making the precautionary decision to return to Entebbe.
The aircraft landed safely at around 10:41 a.m., with all passengers and crew disembarking without injury.
Kenya Airways said the incident caused damage to the aircraft’s steering components, prompting engineers and airport authorities to begin urgent repairs.
The airline indicated that the aircraft was expected to resume operations later in the day, subject to completion of safety checks and maintenance work.
The national carrier also warned that some scheduled flights could experience delays as it works to restore normal operations following the disruption.
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“We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused to our guests and reassure them that their safety and that of our staff remains our top priority,” the airline said.
Kenya Airways added that its teams were actively assisting affected passengers and making alternative travel arrangements where necessary.
Bird strikes are a known aviation hazard worldwide and can cause damage to aircraft systems, particularly during critical phases of flight such as take-off and landing.
