A passenger aboard Kenya Airways flight KQ 003 from New York to Nairobi has died despite emergency medical intervention, the airline has confirmed.
In a statement released on Friday, April 11, 2025, Kenya Airways reported that an elderly passenger experienced a medical emergency at approximately 8:40 am Nairobi time while the aircraft was in flight.
This prompted the flight crew to immediately initiate emergency protocols with assistance from three qualified medical professionals who were travelling on the flight.
“At 0840 hours Nairobi Time, the crew notified the Kenya Airways Operations Control Centre that the passenger had collapsed. In accordance with international aviation medical protocols, the crew, supported by three qualified medical professionals who volunteered on board, immediately initiated emergency procedures, including the use of onboard medical equipment,” the statement reads in part.
The flight, which had departed from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), was diverted towards Entebbe International Airport in Uganda in a bid to secure urgent medical care.
Despite their efforts using onboard medical equipment, the passenger was pronounced deceased at 9:10 am East African Time.
“The flight diverted toward Entebbe International Airport to expedite urgent medical care. Regrettably, despite sustained resuscitation efforts, the passenger was pronounced deceased by the attending medical professionals prior to landing,” KQ further stated.
After confirmation of the fatality, the flight crew made the decision to continue to the scheduled destination at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, where the aircraft landed at 10:27 am.
Upon arrival, the aircraft was met by Kenya Airways’ contracted medical team, airport security personnel, and relevant government authorities who managed the situation according to established protocols.
The airline stated it is working closely with the deceased’s family, local authorities, and aviation regulators to provide necessary support and determine the cause of death in accordance with applicable clinical protocols.
“Kenya Airways is coordinating closely with the family of the deceased, local authorities, and aviation regulators to provide necessary support and determine the cause of death in line with applicable clinical protocols. The airline extends its deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones affected by this tragic event,” KQ stated.
The identity of the deceased passenger has not been released to the public, in line with privacy considerations.
“Privacy and dignity for all involved remain our utmost priority,” the statement concluded.