The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) on Wednesday issued a clarification following reports that a Kenyan plane was almost involved in a plane crash.
According to reports, the incident took place on September 8, as the Kenyan plane was about to land at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, JKIA from Heathrow, London, England.
In a statement, KCAA said the go around was a normal procedure. The agency specifically pointed out that at no time, was the safety of the aircraft and passengers onboard in jeopardy.
“In the last few days, alarming information has been circulating in the social media alleging that there was a near-disaster incident," the agency said in a statement.
“The agency endevours to ensure the safety and security of the flying public, property and operations remain paramount," the agency further stated.
A go-around during a landing approach can be prompted by either air traffic control or the pilot in command for various reasons, such as mechanical problems and abrupt wind changes.
Other reasons include; hazardous flight conditions, excessive control inputs near the runway, or runway obstructions.
Airlines and aircraft operators typically define specific conditions that must be met for a safe landing.
If any of these conditions cannot be met, a go-around may be necessary, either as a recommended option in some cases or as a mandatory procedure in others.
Allegations on the near flight crash first surfaced on social media.
"There was a plane on the runway when the plane was about to land. You should blame Kenya airports." wrote the user.
The post was shared widely on the platform, prompting other users to comment on the same issue.
"Been debating whether to post this, but thought it was important to because something went very wrong at JKIA this morning. Our plane was landing and close to touchdown (we could see the runway and buildings alongside it) it took off at a very sharp angle." another user said.
