The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has moved to quell public concern following the circulation of a widely shared video showing a convoy of black SUVs driving across a restricted section of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
The footage triggered debate over access privileges and the enforcement of airport security protocols.
In a statement, KAA clarified that the vehicles captured in the video formed part of an official State motorcade.
According to the authority, the convoy was at the airport to receive the Prime Minister of an African country who arrived at 5:07 pm to attend the 24th COMESA Summit held in Nairobi.
“The summit was attended by several Heads of State and other senior leaders from COMESA member states. The dignitary was received by a Cabinet Secretary,” KAA said.
The authority stressed that the airside access granted to the VVIP motorcade followed all required security procedures and was in line with established international aviation regulations.
KAA noted that such arrangements are standard practice at JKIA during high-level international events, particularly when coordinating arrivals for multiple heads of state.
“KAA maintains strict adherence to international aviation security standards. We are reviewing the incident to ensure all procedures were followed,” the statement added, reassuring the public that operational integrity and dignitary safety remained top priorities.
The clarification came after the online video sparked a brief stir, with many Kenyans questioning why civilian-looking SUVs were allowed to traverse areas typically restricted to aircraft, airport operations vehicles, and personnel with high-level clearance.
The convoy’s unusual presence on the apron fuelled speculation, including concerns about whether unconventional access was granted without proper justification.
Aviation security experts argued that any deviation — real or perceived — from standard airside movement protocols can trigger public unease.
“Any vehicle accessing the airside must have explicit clearance. If that protocol was bypassed or loosely applied, it raises legitimate safety concerns,” one analyst said.
Passengers and online commentators echoed similar sentiments.
“Seeing a convoy driving where planes should be is worrying. We just want assurance that security at JKIA is not being taken lightly,” one traveller remarked.
Others, however, pointed out that VIP movements often necessitate special arrangements, especially during international summits.
“VIP movements do occur at major airports, but transparency is essential. The public needs to know that special access does not mean compromised security,” a transport analyst said.
The incident has reignited discussions on the need for transparency in airport operations, with calls for clearer communication whenever unusual airside activities occur.
KAA’s explanation appears aimed at restoring public confidence as Nairobi continues to host major regional and international delegations.
