When a plane touches down at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and is greeted by two fire engines blasting arcs of water over its fuselage, it is a moment of honor.
Known globally as a water cannon salute, this aviation tradition is reserved for extraordinary occasions: record-breaking achievements, historic milestones, or the final journey of distinguished pilots, air traffic control personnel, and other aviation staff.
In Kenya, however, the spectacle is exceptionally rare, making those who receive it part of a small and prestigious group.
Following the recent heroic arrival of Sabastian Sawe, here’s a look at Kenyans who have been honored with this powerful tribute at JKIA.
1. Sabastian Sawe – Kenyan Marathoner (2026)
Fresh off a record-breaking marathon performance, Sebastian Sawe returned home to a hero’s welcome that few athletes ever experience.
As his aircraft taxied at JKIA just minutes after 9 PM on the evening of April 29th, it passed through a dramatic arch of water, symbolizing national pride and recognition of his achievement on the global stage.
The gesture placed Sawe among a select cadre of athletes whose victories resonate far beyond the track.
The World Marathon record holder dedicated his victory at the London Marathon to the late Kelvin Kiptum, who previously held the record. Kiptum died in a tragic road crash in February 2024.
Following his ceremonial salute, Sawe addressed the media flanked by Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya and senior Kenya Airports Authority officials, before retiring to a much-needed rest.
2. Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga – Former Kenyan Prime Minister and Opposition Supremo (2025 – Posthumous Honour)
In one of the most passionate yet solemn moments ever witnessed at JKIA, the late Raila Odinga was accorded a water salute upon the arrival of his body from India, where he died while on a routine medical visit.
The tribute underscored the magnitude of his influence in Kenyan public life, marking a historic first for a political leader in the country.
Unlike celebratory salutes, this one carried a tone of national mourning and respect, turning the airport into a stage for collective remembrance.
The body of the late Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga was repatriated from Mumbai, India, to Nairobi on October 16, 2025, aboard a specially designated Kenya Airways flight, often referred to as RAO 001 (initially flight KQ 203).
The Boeing 737-8HX, registration 5Y-CYD, touched down at JKIA around 9:30 a.m, and was met by a huge crowd of supporters who had momentarily taken over the airport.
The late Raila Amolo Odinga was also posthumously awarded the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (CGH), Kenya’s highest civilian honour, by President William Ruto on Mashujaa Day, October 20, 2025.
The award recognized his lifelong service to democracy, national unity, and development.
3. Alice Waweru (2023 – Aviation Tribute)
When longtime Kenya Airways staff member Alice Waweru retired after a remarkable 38 years of service, she received a rare aviation send-off—a water salute in recognition of her contribution to the airline.
It was a reminder that behind every flight are individuals whose dedication keeps the industry moving.
Kenya Airways later released a series of photos documenting Alice’s last day on duty, including her arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
Why the Water Salute Is So Rare in Kenya
Globally, water salutes at airports are used to mark:
- A pilot’s final flight before retirement
- Launch of a new airline route — Kenya Airports Authority has documented several such milestone moments, including the inaugural direct flight from Nairobi to New York, the launch of Nairobi–Dar es Salaam services by Air Tanzania, and the introduction of the Mombasa–Istanbul direct route.
- Arrival of a VIP or record-breaking individual
- Moments of national significance
In Kenya, the rarity comes down to strict ceremonial restraint. The honor is not routine, not commercialised, and reserved for truly exceptional moments.
That exclusivity is precisely what makes each occurrence so powerful and memorable.
