Aircraft Veers Off Runway at Wilson Airport Following Flight from Kisumu

The Kenya Airports Authority has confirmed a runway excursion involving a passenger aircraft at Wilson Airport on the evening of March 20, 2026. The incident occurred at approximately 2055 hours as the flight arrived from Kisumu International Airport.

Preliminary reports indicate the aircraft, which was carrying thirty-nine passengers and crew members, veered off the tarmac upon touchdown. Wilson Airport, located in the Lang'ata area of Nairobi, serves as a primary hub for domestic flights and light aircraft, frequently handling traffic from the lakeside city of Kisumu.

In a formal press statement issued shortly after the event, the KAA noted that all individuals on board were evacuated without injury. Medical teams and airport fire services were dispatched to the scene immediately as part of standard emergency protocols for such aviation occurrences.

The authority stated that the aircraft remains on-site while recovery efforts continue. These operations typically involve specialized equipment to move the airframe back onto the paved surface without causing structural damage to the landing gear or the runway environment.

Despite the presence of the disabled aircraft, the KAA maintained that operations at Wilson Airport remain normal. The facility is known for its high traffic volume and short runways, which require precise execution during takeoff and landing phases.

This incident highlights the ongoing operational challenges at Wilson Airport, which has seen various infrastructure upgrades in recent years to accommodate growing domestic demand. The airport remains a critical link for the construction and tourism sectors, providing access to remote regions and major towns.

Investigation teams from the Air Accident Investigation Department are expected to examine the site to determine the cause of the excursion. Factors such as weather conditions at the time of landing, technical-mechanical status, and runway surface friction will likely be central to the probe.

The KAA reiterated its commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards across all its managed airports. Further updates regarding the removal of the aircraft and the official findings of the safety audit are expected once the recovery team concludes its work on the airfield.

While the runway remains the focal point of the current recovery, the quick response of the ground teams prevented any secondary disruptions to the flight schedule. Passengers scheduled for late-night or early-morning departures were advised to check with their respective airlines for any minor delays.

Wilson Airport continues to be a vital piece of Kenya's transport infrastructure, supporting the logistics of numerous engineering firms and private developers. Ensuring the integrity of its runways is a priority for the Ministry of Roads and Transport.