Captain Saviemaria Ondego, the Kenya Airways pilot who commanded the flight that brought home the body of former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga, has shared a deeply emotional reflection on what she described as a “surreal moment” — a flight unlike any other in her career.
Speaking on Saturday, Captain Ondego said that while her team approached the assignment with the professionalism expected of national carrier pilots, the emotional gravity of the task was impossible to ignore.
“Every day is never a normal day at our job. And like any flight, we woke up to a roster,” she recalled. “But there was a heaviness and a responsibility to our country that made it not a normal flight.”
The Kenya Airways Flight KQ203, which departed from India on Thursday morning carrying Raila’s remains, took on a new identity upon entering Kenyan airspace — its call sign changed to RAO001, in tribute to the man whose initials had become synonymous with Kenya’s democratic journey.
As the aircraft crossed into Kenyan skies, Captain Ondego prepared to address the passengers — a moment she admits was unexpectedly overwhelming.
“To be honest, I went to speak and nothing came out,” she said. “I had to come off the speaker, take a deep breath, and then try again.”
When she finally spoke, her voice trembled with emotion, but her words resonated deeply with those on board and, later, across the nation.
“Ladies and gentlemen, this is your captain speaking. Today, we acknowledge a significant loss felt across Kenya and Africa. On behalf of the Kenya Airways family, we extend our deepest condolences on the passing of the Right Honorable Raila Odinga, a visionary leader and a passionate Pan-Africanist.”
She went on to praise Raila’s enduring influence:
“His impact transcends borders, inspiring many with his dedication to peace and determination to address our continent’s challenges.”
In her closing remarks, Captain Ondego called for unity in the wake of national mourning:
“To our country, to Kenyans everywhere, and to the family of Hon. Raila Odinga, we are with you. Our hearts are with you. We are one as a country moving forward.”
Kenya Airways confirmed that the RAO001 call sign — symbolizing Raila’s initials — was used as a one-time gesture of honor and respect. The flight touched down at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at approximately 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, October 16, 2025, where it was received by President William Ruto, members of Raila’s family, and other dignitaries.
For Captain Ondego, the journey will forever remain etched in memory — a solemn duty that transcended profession and became a moment of shared national emotion.
“It wasn’t just a flight,” she said quietly. “It was Kenya bringing one of its greatest sons home.”
