The Kenya Airways flight carrying the body of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga has become the world’s most tracked aircraft this morning, drawing global attention as Kenyans await its arrival.
Flight KQ203, which was renamed RAO001 in honour of the late statesman upon entering Kenyan airspace, has garnered over 29,000 live trackers on Flightradar24, a record number for any flight globally at this hour. The aircraft is currently flying over Somalia and is expected to land at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at approximately 9:30 a.m.
The symbolic flight renaming was confirmed by Kenya Airways earlier in the day, marking a poignant tribute to one of Kenya’s most influential leaders. “KQ203 will change to RAO001 as soon as we reach the Kenya airspace at around 8:50 a.m. to honour and respect our departed leader. ETA at JKIA is 9:30 a.m.,” the airline said in a statement.
The aircraft departed Mumbai, India, at 6:23 a.m. local time, carrying Raila’s remains and members of the Kenyan delegation that had travelled to facilitate the repatriation. Its journey has been closely followed both locally and internationally, reflecting the immense public emotion surrounding the death of the former Prime Minister.
Upon landing, the body will be received by President William Ruto, senior government officials, and members of the Odinga family before being transported to the Parliament Buildings in Nairobi, where it will lie in state from 12 noon to 5 p.m. for public viewing.
Later in the evening, the body will return to the Lee Funeral Home, where it will remain until Friday, October 17 the day set aside as a public holiday to honour Raila Odinga’s life and legacy.
On Friday morning, a State Funeral service will be held at the Nyayo National Stadium beginning at 8 a.m., expected to be attended by dignitaries, world leaders, and thousands of Kenyans.
After the service, Raila’s remains will be moved to his Karen residence for an overnight stay ahead of the continuation of national mourning ceremonies.
