Kenya Airways cancels New York flights, cites adverse weather conditions

Business · Bradley Bosire · February 22, 2026
Kenya Airways cancels New York flights, cites adverse weather conditions
A Kenya Airways plane in flight. PHOTO/Skymetrix
In Summary

The national carrier said the blizzard warning and adverse weather conditions affecting several parts of the United States, including New York, had led airport authorities to suspend flight operations for specific periods.

Kenya Airways has cancelled flights to and from New York following a severe blizzard and heavy snowfall that has disrupted operations at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK).

In a statement on Sunday, February 22, 2026, the national carrier said the blizzard warning and adverse weather conditions affecting several parts of the United States, including New York, had led airport authorities to suspend flight operations for specific periods.

“As a result, and for the safety of our customers and crew, the following flights have been cancelled: KQ 002 from Nairobi to New York on 22 February 2026, and KQ 003 from New York to Nairobi on 23 February 2026,” Kenya Airways stated.

The airline apologised for the inconvenience caused to passengers and said it appreciates their patience and understanding.

It added that the cancelled flights are expected to operate on February 24 and February 25, 2026, once the weather improves and it is safe to fly.

“The safety and comfort of our customers and crew remains our highest priority,” the statement said.

Kenya Airways said its teams are actively monitoring the situation and working closely with relevant airport authorities.

Passengers have been advised to check the airline’s website or mobile app for the latest flight updates, or to contact the Customer Excellence team via phone, WhatsApp, or social media for further information.

The airline provided the following contact details for passengers: +254 711 024 747, WhatsApp +254 705 474 747, and X @KQSupport.

Severe winter storms in the United States have increasingly affected international air travel, with airports across the East Coast reporting delays and cancellations.

JFK is one of the busiest airports in the world, and temporary suspension of operations during extreme weather events is not uncommon to ensure passenger and crew safety.

Passengers flying to New York are advised to remain flexible with travel plans and stay in contact with airlines for the latest updates.

Airlines typically reschedule flights after severe weather events once runways are cleared and conditions are deemed safe.

Kenya Airways emphasised that the decision to cancel flights was made solely for safety reasons.

The airline maintained that resuming operations will occur as soon as it is safe for both passengers and crew.

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