The Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) was on Thursday morning in a state of lockdown for one hour following a request by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
KDF operatives conducted a drill between 11 am and 12 pm in preparation for the upcoming October 20, Mashujaa Day celebrations.
According to Kenya Airways, the military exercise interrupted the flight schedule for the day.
"We wish to advise our esteemed guests travelling through JKIA tomorrow Thursday 5th October that we expect slight flight delays due to Nairobi airport closure.This shall happen between 11:00 am and 12:00 noon.
"This shall allow for military exercises in preparation for Heroes day holiday celebration. We apologize to our guests for any inconvenience caused," read a notice by the flight operator.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Kenya (CAA) had also issued a notice to airmen (NOTAM) warning that Kenya's airspace would remain inaccessible for the said period.
As is custom, the Kenya Airforce will conduct a honourary showcase during the official celebrations of the Heroes Day memorial.
Unlike in 2016 where the celebrations were taken to Machakos County, the 2017 commemoration will be held at Uhuru Park in Nairobi.
Despite current preparations for a repeat presidential poll on October 26, President Uhuru Kenyatta will preside over the event.
[caption caption="File image President Uhuru Kenyatta inspecting a guard of honour mounted by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF)"]
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An official from the Ministry of Interior has confirmed to Kenyans.co.ke that preparations are underway and no orders that would indicate otherwise have been given.
[caption caption="File image of President Uhuru Kenyatta addressing a crowd "]
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