KQ Adds Leased Jet for Africa, Middle East Routes, No New Destinations

Kenya Airways (KQ) will use its newly acquired Boeing 737-800 under an eight-year dry lease arrangement on African and Middle East routes, with no plans to open new destinations.

The 170-seat aircraft, leased from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE), expands KQ’s fleet to 35 and will boost available seat inventory, offering passengers more travel options and flexibility.

The medium-range jet will primarily serve African destinations, with potential extensions to the Middle East.

“We are not opening any new routes with the leased aircraft. We are going to utilise it mainly on African routes and perhaps to the Middle East,” said Marvin Olayo, head of fleet development at Kenya Airways.

This is the third leased aircraft in two years, following the acquisition of two Airbus planes last year, as the carrier focuses on enhancing capacity, improving operational efficiency, and meeting growing demand for air travel.

The move aligns with the airline’s turnaround plan, Project Kifaru 2.

The carrier says the latest acquisition is is in line with its approach in securing resources that align with its long-term growth objectives.

“The addition of this B737-800 marks a pivotal moment in our fleet expansion journey. It will increase our seat capacity and demonstrates our ability to adapt and grow in a challenging operating environment, even as the global aviation industry faces aircraft availability issues,” said the airline during an official launch of the aircraft last week.

Kenya Airways is also in advanced talks to secure more aircraft, focusing on narrow and wide-body models that offer increased seat capacity and operational efficiency.

“We are committed to building a robust and modern fleet that supports our vision for growth. The acquisition of the B737-800 from DAE solidifies our relationship and highlights KQ’s status as a reliable and forward-thinking partner in the aviation industry.”

ligadwah@businessdayafrica.org