Kenya Airways flights between Nairobi and London have been suspended as a result of the cold war between the two countries, which began on Friday.
This comes just two days after the government suspended all flights to and from the United Kingdom, effective April 9, in response to London’s decision to prohibit Kenyans from entering the country due to an increase in Covid-19 incidents. KQ has added two flights to the UK tomorrow and Thursday to accommodate more travelers rushing to make the deadline.
Due to the permanent nature of the suspension, those affected have been required to either change their travel plans or request a refund, with all penalties waived. However, all tickets must be used by March 31 of the following year.
The spat between the two countries began last Friday, when the UK added Kenya to its “red list” due to concerns about new Covid-19 models, and passengers were barred from entering the country.
“Of the average 550 people that travel from Kenya to the UK each week, a significant number are testing positive on Day 2. Nearly a third of those testing positive have been carrying the B 1.352 variant which originated from South Africa,” the British High Commission said.
According to Nation Africa, following this, London stated that only British, Irish and third country nationals with residence rights in the UK will be allowed. Nairobi termed the announcement a “regrettable decision”.
“The decision will have deep and far-reaching consequences on the Kenya-United Kingdom trade, travel, tourism, security cooperation among other sectors,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.
Regarding this diplomatic response, Kenya suspended all passenger flights between the two countries, and within four weeks, the suspension will be reviewed.
