Kenya Airways (KQ) has found itself embroiled in yet another controversy regarding its passenger boarding procedures.

The airline is facing accusations of discriminatory behaviour after a video surfaced on social media, claiming that a Rabbi was barred from boarding a flight solely due to his appearance.

The incident took place at Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport, and the video quickly sparked outrage, with many accusing KQ of antisemitism.



In response to the allegations, Kenya Airways took to social media to clarify the situation. The airline issued a statement on X, saying, "We would like to address a video circulating on social media that alleges guests were denied boarding solely based on their appearance and religion. We want to assure everyone that this is not the case."

Kenya Airways explained that the group in question was observed causing a disturbance at the boarding gate and upon investigation, it was determined that the group was behaving disruptively and appeared to be intoxicated.

KQ said the airline's staff addressed three passengers for their conduct, following the airline’s safety management protocols and international aviation regulations.

"Our personnel explained to them that our safety management protocol and international civil aviation regulations require us not to board any passenger who appears to be intoxicated or disruptive," the airline’s statement read.

The airline further said that the three passengers were offered the option to take the next available flight once they were deemed fit to travel.

Despite their dissatisfaction and claims of being profiled due to their religion, Kenya Airways stressed that the rest of the group was allowed to travel on the same flight.

"Although the guests expressed dissatisfaction and suggested they were being profiled because of their religion, this was not the case, as the rest of their group travelled on the same flight," KQ stated.

The incident has reignited discussions about the airline’s treatment of passengers, especially in light of a similar incident involving a Nigerian passenger who was denied boarding at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

The passenger, identified as Omisore G., was reportedly allowed to board the first leg of her journey but was prevented from boarding her connecting flight in Nairobi due to missing documentation.

Kenya Airways responded to the incident, explaining that Omisore G. was found to be lacking a necessary Schengen visa, which is required for entry into European Union countries.

The airline offered an alternative route through London, which the passenger refused.

The airline also reported that the passenger became disruptive, throwing used sanitary pads at staff, a claim that has sparked further controversy.

The airline has assured the public that both incidents are being investigated thoroughly, adhering to aviation best practices.

"Most importantly, our top priority is the safety and well-being of our staff and guests," Kenya Airways stated.

As the controversy surrounding these incidents continues to unfold, Kenya Airways faces scrutiny over its passenger treatment and boarding practices, with calls for greater transparency and clearer communication about travel requirements.