As Kenya continues to mourn the passing of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga, the story of Captain S. Ondego, the pilot who flew his body home from Mumbai, India, has captured the hearts of many.
Captain Ondego, a Kenyan pilot from Vihiga County, has gone viral online after sharing her emotional experience flying the aircraft — code-named RAO001 — that carried the body of the iconic opposition leader back to Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
Speaking to reporters, the calm and composed captain described the journey as one of the most difficult and emotional flights of her career. “It wasn’t a normal day at work,” she said. “It was a moment that required deep courage and confidence. Despite the emotions being high, I had to take a deep breath and do my best to ensure that the body of the former Prime Minister landed safely back home.”
For Captain Ondego, the task carried more than professional responsibility — it carried national pride and personal emotion. She revealed that she felt the weight of history as she commanded the Kenya Airways Boeing 737-800, knowing that the entire nation was waiting to receive one of its greatest sons.
“It was not an easy journey,” she admitted. “But because I was the one in the cockpit, I had to make it one. I thank God that we landed safely. I truly sympathize and mourn with the entire nation. Raila was the epitome of democracy, and his death has left a huge void in Kenyan politics.”
Her courage and professionalism have earned her widespread praise online, with many Kenyans lauding her for her composure and dedication during such a sensitive and emotional mission. Social media users have described her as a symbol of female excellence, patriotism, and grace under pressure.
Many also noted the historical symbolism of the moment — a Kenyan woman pilot entrusted with bringing home the body of a man who dedicated his life to equality and freedom for all Kenyans. For them, the image of Captain Ondego landing the aircraft carrying Raila Odinga’s body represented a full-circle moment of hope, courage, and unity.
As Raila’s body was received with full state honors at JKIA, those who watched could not help but admire the calm professionalism of Captain Ondego and her crew. Her story is a powerful reminder that even in moments of national grief, heroes quietly emerge, carrying the weight of duty with dignity and strength.
In her final words, Captain Ondego said she was deeply honored to have been part of Raila Odinga’s final journey home — a journey that, though somber, united an entire nation in reflection and respect.
“It was not just a flight,” she said softly. “It was a mission of love, respect, and farewell to a man who gave everything for his country.”
