Nairobi Kenya

 

Lat = 1 degrees, 16.7 minutes South

Long = 36 degrees, 51.7 minutes East

 

Wednesday 23rd March 1988

 

Eight hours and forty-five minutes into the flight the pilot flicked a switch on the console. “Jomo Kenyatta airport this is Zulu Delta 235 on northern approach path, please be advised we have security clearance for touch down and taxing to the VIP stand, over.”

“Roger Zulu Delta 235, we have been expecting you, be advised there is a twenty five mph westerly cross wind, you are clear for landing on runway one, out.”

Max and his group were strapped into their seats as the VC10 began its descent; the wheels touched down on the runway and a few seconds later the high pitched sound of the engines roaring could be heard as the pilot put them into reverse to decelerate the aircraft.

The VC10 taxied over to the VIP stand and came to rest.

The ground crew placed the boarding stairs to the aircraft door; the flight engineer opened the door.

A warm rush of air came in and enveloped the cabin area.

Each man picked up his kit bag as they alighted the aircraft. On the tarmac below waiting was a man in uniform. “Which one of you is Max,” he said to the party

“I’m Max.”

“Follow me please to the VIP lounge.”

Once inside the man in uniform introduced himself to Max. “I am Police Superintendent Mutonga, I have been instructed to hold you and your men here, until your connecting flight arrives in half an hour.”

Max looked at his watch and adjusted it from GMT to local time three hours forward 23:45 hrs.

“Any chance of getting some refreshments Superintendent.”

“I will arrange for hot drinks and sandwiches to be brought in for you.”

“That will do nicely,” Max, replied.