NAIROBI, Kenya- Kenya Airways has cancelled its scheduled Nairobi–New York flights due to severe winter weather conditions affecting the United States, particularly heavy snowfall and a blizzard warning in New York City that has disrupted operations at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK).
Flights Affected by Blizzard and Heavy Snow
In a customer update issued on Sunday, February 22, 2026, Kenya Airways announced that flight KQ 002, set to depart from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) to JFK on February 22, and the return service flight KQ 003 from New York to Nairobi on February 23, have been cancelled due to adverse weather and the suspension of operations by JFK airport authorities.
The airline highlighted that blizzard warnings and heavy snowfall have significantly impacted airport operations, prompting a halt in flight movements at JFK to prioritise safety.
Operations at the airport were temporarily suspended for certain periods, leaving international flights, including those on the Nairobi–New York route, unable to take off or land.
Customer Update
Safety First, Rescheduling Planned
Kenya Airways apologised for the inconvenience and emphasized that passenger and crew safety remains its top priority.
The airline said it plans to reschedule the affected services, with flight KQ 002 expected to operate on February 24, 2026, and flight KQ 003 on February 25, 2026, once weather conditions improve and it is safe to fly.
Customers were advised to monitor updates via the airline’s website, mobile app, or through the KQ Customer Excellence team for the latest information and support.
Weather Impacts Extend Across Routes
The cancellations come amid a major winter storm affecting the US Northeast and Mid‑Atlantic, with blizzard warnings and heavy snowfall prompting disruptions not just at JFK but across several regional airports.
Other international carriers, including Emirates, have also cancelled or rescheduled trans‑Atlantic flights as a result of the storm.
Kenya Airways operates a direct service between Nairobi and New York, one of its longest‑haul international routes, which it has maintained in partnership arrangements with carriers such as Delta Air Lines to offer connectivity between Africa and the United States.
Passengers booked on the affected flights have been urged to check for real‑time flight updates and contact the airline’s support channels for assistance with rebooking, refunds, or travel adjustments as necessary.
