Kenya Airways Archives - Techsawa.co.ke

Kenya Airways and IOM Kenya Unite to Combat Trafficking in Persons and Protection of Migrants

Nairobi, Kenya, July 5, 2024 – Kenya Airways and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Kenya have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on a strategic partnership aimed at intensifying the fight against trafficking in persons and enhancing the protection of migrants.

The collaboration brings together IOM Kenya’s expertise in migration governance and Kenya Airways’ extensive aviation network, to implement robust measures that will identify, prevent, combat trafficking in persons and facilitate regular pathways. This partnership is a testament to the commitment of both organizations to uphold human dignity and support the most vulnerable individuals on the move, promoting regular pathways.

Kenya Airways Group Managing Director and CEO, Mr. Allan Kilavuka, said, “The collaboration with IOM Kenya demonstrates our dedication to corporate social responsibility and the well-being of all travellers. We are committed to providing our staff with the necessary training and resources to assist migrants, particularly those in vulnerable situations.”

Ms. Dimanche Sharon, IOM Chief of Mission, stated, “This MOU marks a significant milestone in our efforts to safeguard the rights and dignity of migrants. By joining forces with Kenya Airways, we can enhance our outreach and impact, ensuring that migration is safe and beneficial for all.”

Key initiatives under the MOU:

Training and Awareness: Kenya Airways staff will receive specialized training from IOM to recognize and respond to improve coordination to assist migrants in vulnerable situations.

Policy Development: Joint efforts will be made to advocate for policies that create a safer travel environment and disrupt traffickers’ operations.

Information Sharing: A framework for sharing information between the airline and IOM will be established to facilitate timely interventions.

The partnership represents a significant step towards ensuring the well-being and rights of migrants are upheld, contributing to a more inclusive and supportive society. Together, they will make a difference

Kenya Airways (KQ) awarded the “Best Airline Staff Service in Africa

Kenya Airways (KQ) has been awarded the “Best Airline Staff Service in Africa” at the 2024 World Airline Awards held on June 24th, 2024, at the Fairmont Windsor Park in London.

Hosted by Skytrax, the international air transport rating organization, the World Airline Awards are renowned as the “Oscars of the aviation industry.” This recognition signifies the exceptional dedication and outstanding service that Kenya Airways’ staff consistently delivers.

Commenting on the award, Kenya Airways Group Managing Director and CEO, Allan Kilavuka, expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating, “This achievement is a testament to the unwavering dedication and exceptional service demonstrated by our team members each day. Receiving the Best Airline Staff Service in Africa award serves as a significant motivation for us to continue striving for excellence in service delivery and passenger satisfaction”

Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax, echoed the sentiment, stating, “We congratulate Kenya Airways on this achievement of being named as the Best Airline Staff Service in Africa at the 2024 World Airline Awards. This service and hospitality accolade should be a source of pride for the management and staff of Kenya Airways.”

Kenya Airways Resumes Maputo Flights as Part of Strengthening Intra-Africa Connectivity

Nairobi, 19th June 2024 – Kenya Airways (KQ) has resumed direct flights between Nairobi and Maputo today, with three flights weekly, on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The relaunch of direct flights to Maputo from Nairobi will cater to travellers originating from Kenya and serves as a convenient connection point for passengers from other African cities via Nairobi.

The expansion will enable Kenya Airways to enhance intra-Africa connectivity, a key driver of economic growth, trading opportunities, and business expansions among local and inter-continental economies. The new route complements KQ’s existing service to Nampula, Mozambique, further solidifying its regional presence.

“Today’s launch is a tangible testament to KQ’s remarkable progress and the exciting future ahead. As we unveil our 45th destination -Maputo – we mark a major milestone in our network expansion journey,” says the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr Allan Kilavuka.

Beyond Maputo, this expansion complements KQ’s broader network strategy for 2024, which also boasts increased frequencies to popular destinations like New York, Paris, Lagos, Accra, and Freetown.

“Aviation is critical to boosting national GDPs by creating jobs and fostering economic activity. The increased intra-African travel will act as a catalyst for economic development across the continent. Our passion lies in fostering connections across the continent, making trade and travel between our nations more accessible than ever before,” Allan Kilavuka further added.

Speaking at the same event, Julius Thairu, Kenya Airways Chief Commercial and Customer Officer, noted that KQ’s expansion is linked to KQ’s mission of propelling Africa’s prosperity by connecting its people, markets and cultures. “The demand for air travel is soaring, and we’re determined to meet it by expanding our reach and fostering connections between Africa’s rich cultures and thriving economies. Adding Maputo to our network strengthens ties between Kenya and Mozambique, opening doors for increased trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.” he said.

Beyond its designation as a major trade hub for southern Africa, Maputo enchants visitors with its rich tapestry of history and culture. Portuguese colonial influences are evident in the city’s architecture, while vibrant markets and a flourishing art scene offer a glimpse into contemporary Mozambican life. Whether you seek relaxation on pristine beaches or explore fascinating museums, Maputo promises an unforgettable experience.

The three weekly scheduled flights are as below:

Nairobi to Maputo
Day	Flight No.	Depart	Arrive
Wed, Fri, Sun	KQ740	0950hrs (local time)	1300hrs (local time)
Maputo to Nairobi
Day	Flight No.	Depart	Arrive
Wed, Fri, Sun	KQ741	1350hrs (local time)	1845hrs (local time)

Timetable

Kenya Airways Holds its 48th Annual General Meeting Virtually

Nairobi, June 14th, 2024 _ Kenya Airways PLC (KQ) convened its 48th Annual General Meeting (AGM) virtually this morning. The AGM, attended by shareholders, was presided over by Board Chairman Mr. Michael Joseph, who presented a comprehensive review of the audited financial results and business performance for the year ended December 31, 2023.

During the meeting, shareholders approved all resolutions in accordance with the provisions of the company’s Articles of Association, the Companies Act, 2015, the Capital Markets Act, and its Regulations. This included the adoption of the audited financial statements, including the Balance Sheet for the year ended December 31, 2023, the Directors’ and Auditors’ Reports, and the Directors’ Remuneration for the same period as outlined in the Annual Report and Financial Statements.

Furthermore, shareholders passed resolutions concerning the election of Directors, including any retirements.

According to Mr. Joseph, Kenya Airways (KQ) has made significant strides in its business operations throughout the year, reflecting in its improved financial performance. He noted that 2023 marked a pivotal moment for KQ.

“The ongoing recovery and strategic turnaround initiatives have resulted in KQ achieving an operating profit of Ksh 10.5 billion. This milestone is particularly significant as it marks the first time in over seven years that the airline has attained such a level of financial success, signaling a positive trajectory for KQ’s future,” said Joseph.

Mr. Allan Kilavuka, Group MD and CEO, emphasised Kenya Airways’ commitment to building upon the achievements of its turnaround strategy, Project Kifaru, with a primary focus on completing the capital restructuring plan. The objectives of this plan include reducing the company’s financial leverage and enhancing liquidity to ensure normalised operations.

“Through the retirement of legacy debts, strengthening of financial foundations, and pursuit of operational excellence, recapitalization will position Kenya Airways to thrive in a competitive and dynamic aviation landscape,” said Kilavuka.

He further stated, “Our key priorities also include enhancing customer experience and operational excellence, particularly improving our On-Time Performance. We aim to drive revenue growth by expanding operations, passenger charters, and partnerships, while remaining steadfast in fostering innovation, forging partnerships, and nurturing a culture of excellence for KQ’s sustainable success.” The voting results of the Annual General Meeting are accessible on www.kenya-airways.com

KQ leads the Sustainable Aviation Agenda in Africa Supporting the SAF Registry by IATA

Nairobi, 13^th June 2024, Kenya Airways (KQ) has been proudly recognized as the only African airline actively supporting the development of the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Registry by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

This comes on the backdrop of the national carrier being awarded the Most Impactful Breakthrough award for pioneering the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) on a long-haul flight from Africa to Europe in October 2023. The pilot flight was the first pathway to testing the use of SAF within Africa generating valuable data and insights that are to inform policy decisions, regulatory frameworks, and industry best practices.

“By playing a crucial role in the development of the registry, KQ contributes significantly to building trust and confidence in SAF as a viable solution for minimizing aviation’s environmental impact,” notes Kenya Airways Group Managing Director and CEO Allan Kilavuka.

SAF is expected to account for up to 65% of the total carbon mitigation needed to achieve net zero carbon emissions in air transportation by 2050. The SAF registry that is to be rolled out in the first quarter of 2025 will enable airlines worldwide to buy sustainable aviation fuel regardless of where it is produced and have certainty they can claim the environmental benefits of the SAF they have purchased for regulatory compliance purposes.

“SAF is key to aviation’s decarbonization,” says Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General. “Airlines want more SAF and stand ready to use every drop of it. The SAF Registry will help meet the critical needs of all stakeholders as part of the global effort to ramp up SAF production.”

The IATA’s Director General also notes that Governments need a trusted system to track the quality and quantities of SAF used. “SAF producers need to accurately account for what has been delivered and effectively decarbonized. Corporate customers must also be able to transparently account for their Scope 3 emissions. And airlines must have certainty that they can claim the environmental benefits of the SAF they purchased,” he reiterated.

The development of the registry is being supported in a pilot phase by seventeen national airlines; IAG airline group, six national authorities, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) Airbus, Boeing and GE Aerospace, and fuel producer World Energy.

These collaborations serve the specific purpose of ensuring compliance with the regulations set by civil aviation authorities such as ICAO’s CORSIA scheme and the EU ETS, as well as ensuring compliance with SAF mandates and providing transparency to authorities regarding emissions reductions.

With its focus on compliance, transparency, and government collaboration, the registry will pave the way for a robust and accountable system that accelerates the use of SAF and facilitates a more sustainable future for the aviation industry.

Kenya Airways (KQ) is pleased to announce progress towards resolving the recent grounding of two 787 Dreamliners.

The airline received the necessary engine components on 22^nd May 2024 for one of the affected aircraft and as a result, anticipates having it back in operation within 24 hours.

The Kenya Airways (KQ) teams have worked tirelessly to readjust the network and schedules and are delighted to report that the network is gradually returning to normal.

Dear Valued Customers,
On Sunday, May 19th, 2024, we issued an update regarding disruptions in our flight schedules due to the unscheduled and extended grounding of two of our 787 Dreamliners. This grounding was caused by constraint in delivery of engine components. Today, we are pleased to announce that we have received the necessary engine components for one of the affected aircraft. As a result, we anticipate having it back in operation within the next 24 hours.

Over the past few days, our dedicated teams have worked tirelessly to readjust our network and schedules. We have also proactively communicated with passengers who were impacted by these changes. We are delighted to report that our network is gradually returning to normal.

We understand the importance of your travel plans and the expectation of a seamless, hassle-free experience when you choose to fly with us. Unfortunately, circumstances beyond our control led to this disruption, and for that, we sincerely
apologize. Your patience and understanding during this challenging time are greatly appreciated, and we are truly grateful for your continued support.

Rest assured that we are exerting every effort to swiftly and efficiently resolve this issue. Your safety and well-being, along with that of our crew, remain our unwavering top priority.

Kenya Airways CEO Allan Kilavuka Receives African Aviation Leadership Award

Nairobi, 24th May 2024 – Kenya Airways Group Managing Director & CEO, Allan Kilavuka, has been honoured with the 2024 African Aviation Leadership Award.

Established by African Aviation Magazine in 1999, this prestigious award recognizes individuals, companies, and organizations that have made significant contributions to the development of aviation in Africa.

Nick Fadugba FRAeS, CEO of African Aviation, praised Kilavuka’s remarkable leadership, stating, “This award highlights Allan’s exceptional leadership, visionary approach, and dedication to advancing the aviation industry across the continent. His innovative strategies and commitment to excellence have set new benchmarks in the industry, inspiring peers and driving significant progress.”

Expressing his appreciation, Kilavuka said, “I am deeply honoured to receive the prestigious African Aviation Leadership Award. This accolade reflects the dedication and passion of the entire Kenya Airways team. It highlights our commitment to excellence, innovation, and enhancing connectivity across our continent.”

The panel of judges for the award included notable professionals such as Nick Fadugba, CEO of African Aviation; Alfred Jones, Managing Director of Fulcrum Capital, USA; Richard Bouma, Chairman of ARC Group, South Africa; Joao Jorge, Former CEO of LAM-Mozambique; and Joachim Vermooten, Transport Economist at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa.

This year also marks the 32nd Anniversary of African Aviation’s MRO Africa & African Aviation Training and Air Finance Africa Conferences, celebrating decades of excellence and progress in the industry.

Past notable recipients include Ethiopian Airlines, awarded “African Airline of the Year”; Michael Shirim, founder and Chairman of Precision Air, who received the “African Aviation Individual Achievement Award”; and Mr. Nick Fadugba, CEO of AFRICAN AVIATION, honored with the “African Aviation Lifetime Achievement Award.”

Kenya Airways Suspends Flights To Kinshasa

Due to the continued detention of KQ employees by the Military Intelligence Unit in Kinshasa, Kenya Airways (KQ) is unable to support our flights without personnel effectively. As a result, we reached a difficult decision to suspend flights to Kinshasa effective 30TH April 2024until we can effectively support these flights.

The continued detention of our employees has made it difficult for us to supervise our operations in Kinshasa, which include customer service, ground handling, cargo activities, and generally ensuring safe, secure, and efficient operations. We also ask that our staff be treated humanely and respectfully during this unlawful detention.

We sincerely apologize to our customers for any inconvenience caused by this situation. We assure you that your safety and well-being, as well as that of our staff, is our number one priority. Affected customers are advised to contact our customer excellence team at +254 711 024 747, WhatsApp at +254 705 474 747, or email customer.relations@kenya-airways.com.

We continue cooperating with the investigating agencies and the relevant Government entities in both DRC and Kenya to ensure this matter is resolved. We ask that the Military court’s direction that they be released to allow due process to be respected so that our innocent staff can return to their families and everyday lives without harassment.

Kenya Airways Position Statement on the Detention of Kenya Airways Employees in Kinshasa

Kenya Airways (KQ) confirms that on Friday, April 19th, 2024, two of our employees at our airport office in Kinshasa were arrested and continue to be detained by the Military Intelligence Unit known as Detection Militaire des Activities Anti Patrie (DEMIAP). During their arrest, their phones were seized, and all access to them has been denied. On April 23rd 2024, the Kenyan embassy officials and a few KQ staff were allowed to visit them but only for a few minutes. The reason for their arrest was alleged to be missing custom documentation on valuable cargo that was to be transported on a KQ flight on April 12th, 2024. However, we wish to state that the said cargo was not uplifted or accepted by KQ due to incomplete documentation.

The facts on the incident are as follows:

The cargo was not on the air side for transportation and, therefore, not in the possession of KQ as the logistic handler was still completing documentation before handing it over to KQ.
This cargo was still in the baggage section undergoing clearance when the security team arrived and alleged that KQ was transporting cargo without customs clearance.
All efforts to explain to the military officers that KQ had not accepted the cargo because of incomplete documentation proved futile.
The military officers took the two employees to the military side of the air wing (DEMIAP)to record statements.
They were held incommunicado until 23RD April, when the Embassy officials and KQ team were allowed to visit them.

Kenya Airways Renews Partnership as Official Airline Sponsor of WRC Safari Rally

Nairobi, 27^th March 2024 – Kenya Airways has announced the renewal of its partnership with WRC Safari rally as its official airline sponsor for the event.

The WRC Safari Rally, which will be held from 28th to 31st March is part of the World Rally Championship. As the official airline sponsor, Kenya Airways is assisting in the transportation of rally cars and team members to ensure the smooth operation of the event.

Allan Kilavuka, CEO of Kenya Airways, stated: “Being named the ‘Official Travel Partner’ of the M-Sport Ford World Rally Team for the WRC Safari Rally Kenya for three consecutive years is a testament to Kenya Airways’ commitment to facilitating world-class sporting events. Our partnership not only ensures the seamless logistics of bringing in M-Sport’s cars, drivers, support crew, and spare parts but also underscores our commitment to elevating the global stage for motorsports enthusiasts worldwide.”

Kilavuka said the airline will this year also sponsor International Automobile Federation (FIA) Rally Star, Hamza Anwar. “This year, Kenya Airways is proud to once again sponsor young Kenyan driver, Hamza Anwar, who will be competing in the championship. Kenya Airways will continue to identify, train, and develop the next generation of Kenyan rally champions through similar initiatives,” said Kilavuka.

Kenya Airways has contributed over KES100 million to the FIA program to date. These funds have been instrumental in supporting and facilitating young rally drivers, their support teams, and officials as they travel to rally competitions across Africa and Europe.