Plane with 36 on board veers off runway in Mandera Airstrip
By Faith Lagat, April 24, 2026An aircraft operated by EBB Air skidded off the runway at Mandera Airstrip on Friday, April 24, 2026, in an incident that ended without injuries.
According to a statement from the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), the aircraft, which had departed from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), veered off the runway during landing at approximately 0910 hours local time.
The plane, carrying 32 passengers and four crew members, came to a stop at the airstrip’s perimeter fence.
Passengers and crew were safely evacuated, with emergency response teams providing immediate ground support. The authority confirmed that no injuries were reported.
“The aircraft, carrying 32 passengers and 4 crew members, veered off the runway during landing at approximately 0910 hours local time and came to a stop at the airstrip’s perimeter fence,” read the KAA statement in part.
Incident details and response
KAA said emergency protocols were activated immediately after the runway excursion, ensuring the safe evacuation of all on board. The authority maintained that safety procedures were followed in line with aviation standards.
“The Authority reaffirms its unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety, security, and operational excellence across all its facilities,” the statement read.
The incident involved a domestic flight linking Nairobi to Mandera, a key route serving residents, government officials and humanitarian agencies operating in the region. Airport operations teams responded on site as investigations into the cause of the incident commenced.
Mandera airstrip
Mandera Airstrip plays a critical role in connecting the north-eastern region of Kenya, which borders Somalia and Ethiopia. The facility supports the movement of people, delivery of essential supplies, and access to services in an area where road transport can be limited.
Air travel remains a primary mode of transport for many in the region due to distance and logistical challenges. The airstrip also supports security operations and humanitarian missions.
Investigations
KAA indicated that investigations are underway to establish the cause of the runway excursion. The authority is expected to review operational factors surrounding the landing, including conditions at the airstrip at the time of the incident at the Mandera Airstrip.
Passengers affected by the disruption are expected to be accommodated on alternative flights as normal operations resume.
The incident comes as Kenya continues to expand domestic air connectivity to remote areas, with aviation authorities emphasising safety and operational standards across all airports and airstrips. think headlines