Kenya Airways (KQ) has reached a significant milestone in its fleet expansion with the official unveiling of its newly acquired Boeing 737-800 aircraft.
The 170-seater aircraft leased from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAB) now increases the number of aircraft under the ownership of KQ to 35.
This addition, KQ CEO Allan Kilavuka said, strengthens the airline’s ability to provide enhanced connectivity, increased capacity and world-class service across its expanding network.
Speaking during the commissioning at the JKIA, Kilavuka shared his vision for the airline’s future.
“This new aircraft is a testament to our continued growth and confidence in the future of African aviation,” he said.
He added that this was part of their broader strategic plan under Project Kifaru 2, aimed at boosting their business by increasing the passenger capacity.
“We are looking at the growth projection, how the economy is going to look like for example in the next five years we are going to have close to 50 per cent additional capacity for passenger business because KQ needs to grow,” he stated.
He added that they are also seeking to expand cargo considering it is currently operating below its capacity.
“Cargo is about 10 per cent of the business and we want to grow that to 20 per cent in the next five years,” he said.
Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) chairman Caleb Kositany who was present during the event underscored the importance of collaboration in the sector.
“Kenya Airways continues to play a vital role in strengthening our aviation infrastructure and positioning Kenya as a key hub in African and global travel."
Others who graced the event were DAE CEO Firoz Tarapore and Civil Aviation Authority of Kenya Director General Emile Arao.
Tarapore expressed his excitement over the partnership noting the new aircraft marks an important step in our ongoing collaboration with Kenya Airways.
"We are proud to be part of their journey as they modernize their fleet and continue to deliver excellence in service,” he said.
"Project Kifaru 2 will ensure that Kenya Airways remains at the forefront of African aviation, setting new standards in the industry," Kilavuka added.
The 737-800 is a narrow-body aircraft developed by US plane manufacturer, Boeing.
