Kenya Association of Air Operators Calls for Review of JKIA Privately Initiated Proposal (PIP) Concession Process.

The Board of the Kenya Association of Air Operators (KAAO) has officially called for a comprehensive review of the Privately Initiated Proposal (PIP) Concession process for Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). This decision follows an extensive internal review process, driven by the views and concerns of its members, and was made public following the Board’s meeting on October 4, 2024.

Concerns Raised Over JKIA Concession Process

The KAAO Board expressed its strong reservations regarding the current approach to the JKIA concession, specifically objecting to the one-bidder process proposed for the management and operation of one of Kenya’s most strategic assets. The association argued that this approach jeopardizes the transparency and competitive nature expected from a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) of such magnitude.

In a statement, KAAO noted that its members unanimously agreed that JKIA’s concession, as presently conceived, was not in the best interest of the country. Concerns were raised over the credibility of the potential private partner involved, urging for a competitive and transparent bidding process. The Association emphasized the importance of following the steps outlined in Kenya’s PPP Act to ensure fairness and maximize the benefits for all stakeholders involved.

Advocating for a Competitive and Transparent Process

The KAAO Board firmly believes that a one-bidder process for a critical infrastructure asset like JKIA does not align with Kenya’s long-term interests. They recommended that the bidding process for the concession be opened up to multiple parties, ensuring that it is competitive and transparent. By adhering to the principles outlined in the National Aviation Policy and following a master plan for JKIA’s development, the concession could lead to meaningful upgrades to Kenya’s primary aviation hub.

The Association also stressed the need for a clear vision of JKIA’s future, driven by comprehensive stakeholder involvement. This includes a thorough feasibility study, a requirement that KAAO insists should be undertaken before proceeding with any concession. The members highlighted that such a study would offer critical insights into the needs of operators, users, and the public, ensuring that the eventual concession plan provides the best value for Kenya.

Reiterating the Need for Stakeholder Involvement and Infrastructure Development

A central demand from KAAO’s members is the prioritization of stakeholder engagement in the concession process. The association is calling for a collaborative effort that involves all parties from the outset to create a shared vision for JKIA’s future. KAAO emphasized that critical infrastructure projects, such as the development of a second runway and terminal expansions, must be included in any concession plans to ensure that JKIA can maintain its position as a leading aviation hub in the region.

In recent years, JKIA has faced increasing competition from other regional airports, and KAAO believes that its full potential can only be realized with a carefully planned development strategy. The proposed concession process, if executed correctly, could pave the way for these much-needed infrastructure upgrades, boosting JKIA’s capacity and efficiency in handling growing passenger and cargo traffic.

A Call for a Return to the Drawing Board

The KAAO Board ultimately recommended a return to the drawing board for the JKIA concession process, with a renewed focus on collaboration, transparency, and competitive practices. They emphasized that the end goal should be the development of JKIA as a dynamic, world-class aviation hub, serving not only Kenya but the entire region.

The Association’s stance reflects the deep-seated concerns among Kenyan air operators about the future of JKIA. With its strategic importance to the country’s aviation sector, any plans for its concession must be carefully scrutinized to ensure that Kenya’s long-term goals and the interests of all stakeholders are fully considered.

Source: Air Space Africa

UK announces changes to its visa application process.

The United Kingdom has announced changes to its visa application process that will affect applicants from several countries, including Kenya.

The UK government unveiled these updates on Monday, October 21, 2024, and will affect current and future visa applicants. Central to these changes is the switch from TLScontact to VFS Global as the new commercial partner for visa printing.

“This transition is set to take place between September 2024 and January 2025 across several regions, including Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia. For Kenyan applicants, the process will start with TLScontact and conclude with VFS Global,” the UK High Commission in Nairobi said.

The High Commission has urged applicants to “remain calm and follow the instructions carefully,” provided via email from both TLScontact and VFS Global.

These emails will outline the necessary steps in the visa process. Applicants were also reminded to “check their junk folders” to ensure they do not miss any critical updates.

Those with scheduled visa interviews were advised to attend as planned.

However, if a rescheduling is required, applicants will have to pay the mandatory user pay (MUP) fee again, and then request a refund for the initial fee from TLScontact.

Despite the administrative changes, the High Commission reassured applicants that “the processing time for visas will remain unaffected.”

VFS Global will officially take over the visa application centres in Kenya from October 22, 2024.

This transition is part of a broader strategy to improve the efficiency and security of the visa application system.

The shift to VFS Global is expected to bring several benefits, including enhanced service delivery and heightened security.

With extensive experience in managing visa centres globally, VFS Global is well-prepared to manage the increased workload.

Along with the change in commercial partners, the UK Government has also introduced new measures to streamline the visa process.

One such innovation is the launch of an online visa application service called Access UK, which aims to simplify the process by providing “easy-to-follow checklists and online payment options.”

Public reaction to the changes has been mixed.

While some people expressed concerns about potential confusion and delays, others see it as a step in the right direction towards “improving the visa application process.”

The High Commission emphasized its commitment to “ensuring a smooth transition” and providing support to all applicants.

These changes come as the UK seeks to “strengthen its ties” with Kenya and other countries in the region.

UK High Commissioner to Kenya Neil Wigan highlighted the importance of “maintaining strong bilateral relations” and ensuring an efficient and secure visa system.

As the transition unfolds, the UK High Commission will continue to provide updates and guidance to applicants. Kenyans are encouraged to stay informed and follow all instructions to ensure a “smooth and successful visa application experience.”

Source: NTV Kenya

What Do Africa’s Airline Connections With The US Look Like Compared To 5 Years Ago?

It’s been almost five years since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the aviation industry has mostly recovered . So, what are the United States’ direct flight connections with the continent of Africa for November 2024 compared to November 2019 before the pandemic? Africa is collectively home to around 1.4 billion people – far more than North and South America combined. According to data from Cirium, flights between the US and Africa have significantly more than recovered from the pandemic.

Airlines flying between the US and Africa

Comparing data for the months of November 2019 and November 2024 for direct flights from Africa to the United States, there has been a notable 33% increase in flights.

Delta Air Lines A330-200 shutterstock_2486927139

Photo: Markus Mainka | Shutterstock

In 2019, seven airlines flew from Africa to the United States – two US airlines and four airlines based in countries in Africa. Two United States-based airlines fly to Africa – Delta Air Lines and United Airlines . American Airlines is notable for not flying to Africa (there are reasons why American Airlines doesn’t fly to Africa ), while Southwest doesn’t even fly to Canada as its system is not set up to receive Canadian dollars .

Airlines flying between the United States and Africa in November 2024

  • Royal Air Marco
  • EgyptAir
  • Delta Air Lines
  • United Airlines
  • Kenya Airways
  • Ethiopian Airlines

Two of the six African airlines in 2019 were from North Africa (Royal Air Maroc in Marocco) and EgyptAir. Three airlines from sub-Saharan Africa (Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, and South African Airways). One airline from the African island nation of Cape Verde (Cabo Verde Airlines) doesn’t fit neatly into the North/Sub-Saharan African divide.

Delta Airbus A330

Related

Delta Once Planned A Massive African Expansion – What Happened?

Change in US-based flights to Africa

Notably, US-based Delta and United have driven the increase in flights between the continents. Overall, the number of monthly flights has increased from 640 to 852, a 33% increase.

United Airlines Boeing 787 departing LHR shutterstock_2400014209

Photo: Kevin Hackert | Shutterstock

Delta’s flights increased from 160 in November 2019 to 232 in November 2024. That represents a 45% increase in flights and a total of 59,506 seat capacity for November 2024. Delta is the airline with the most flights and seats between the US and Africa. It flies to South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana (in West Africa), and Morocco.

Airline:Flights November 2019Flights November 2024Change
Royal Air Maroc:134112-16%
Delta Air Lines:160232+45%
Ethiopian Airlines:91150+65%
Kenya Airways:4460+36%
EgyptAir:8674-14%
South African Airways:1120-100%
United Airlines:0224+100%
Cabo Verde Airlines:130-100%
Total:640852+33%

While United lacked any flights to Africa in November 2019, it has 224 scheduled for 225, placing it second after Delta. United’s African destinations are similar to Delta’s: South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, and Morocco. All of these routes (except for flights from Newark to Marrakesh, Morocco) are served with Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners. Most are three times a week, although the flights to South Africa’s Johannesburg are daily.

United Airlines Boeing 767-300ER landing

Related

United Airlines Expands In Africa: Only US Carrier To Fly Non-Stop From Newark To Marrakesh

Marrakech is United Airlines’ fifth destination in Africa.

8

Change in Africa-based flights to US

Two African-based airlines ( Cabo Verde Airlines and South African Airways ) are no longer scheduled to fly to the US in November 2024. Whereas Ethiopian Airlines may have been a sub-Saharan success story, the same cannot be said for South African Airways. Once the leading airline in sub-Saharan Africa, it collapsed in 2019 but resumed operations in 2021 and is being rebuilt .

Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 777

Photo: Croatorum | Shutterstock

Despite a large civil war (and a series of other confusing civil wars) ravaging parts of Ethiopia (particularly between 2020 and 2022), the number of Ethiopian Airlines flights to the United States has increased by 65% from 91 flights to 150. That is the largest percentage increase of any airline over that time (from a non-zero starting point).

Ethiopian Airlines has grown to become one of the leading stars of airlines in sub-Saharan Africa and offers some of the best connections for the continent (there are comparatively few inter-African connections). Ethiopian Airlines has made its hub at Addis Ababa a major hub for sub-Saharan Africa in general. Unfortunately, in Western countries Ethiopian Airlines is perhaps better known for Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 , whose Boeing 737 MAX 8 crashed in March 2019 (which heralded Boeing’s MAX crisis that continues to buffet the company today).

AirlineSeats November 2019Seats November 2024Change
Royal Air Maroc:38,50832,368-16%
Delta Air Lines40,04459,506+49%
Ethiopian Airlines:25,15543,136+71%
Kenya Airways:10,29614,040+36%
EgyptAir:26,57424,790-7%
South African Airways:30,7800-100%
United Airlines:054,024+100%
Cabo Verde Airlines:2,3790-100%
Total:173,736227,864+31%
Kenya Airways Boeing 787 Come Live The Magic livery

Photo: Abdul N Quraishi – Abs | Shutterstock

Kenya Airways has also been able to increase its flights to the US by 36%. EgyptAir and Royal Air Maroc have both decreased a little, with 14% fewer flights and 7% fewer seats, and 16% fewer flights and 16% fewer seats, respectively. There are no scheduled Cabo Verde Airlines flights scheduled for November 2024.

Africa is the world’s second-largest continent and has so much to see and do. It is one of the least explored regions of the world and very often gets in the news for all the wrong reasons. Sub-Saharan Africa is best known for its safaris to see the animals, but there is so much more on offer. The comparative dearth of flights to only seven of Africa’s 56 or so countries shows there is much more potential.

Source: Simple Flying

Kenya Airways Set to Elevate In-Flight Dining Experience.

[Nairobi, Kenya, October 1, 2024] – Kenya Airways in collaboration with its customers is set to elevate
its in-flight dining experience following an exclusive Product Selection event held today at KQ’s Pride
Centre.
This unique gathering brought together select customers and culinary experts to sample a diverse array
of meals and drinks, all aimed at reshaping the airline’s onboard dining experience.
Allan Kilavuka, CEO of Kenya Airways, commented on the event, emphasizing that food is one of the
most memorable aspects of travel. He stated, “Kenya Airways is committed to transforming in-flight
dining from a routine necessity into an enjoyable experience that passengers can genuinely look forward
to.”

Kilavuka further emphasized the new upcoming menu, stating, “The new menu will showcase a
harmonious mix of global culinary influences and local flavors, guaranteeing that every guest discovers
something delightful to enjoy. Our goal is for our meals to be as thrilling as the destinations you’re
visiting.”
Sustainability is also a key focus of this initiative, with Kenya Airways planning to source ingredients
responsibly and support local producers. Kilavuka noted that this approach marries the culinary
experience with a commitment to environmental stewardship, enhancing the meal while contributing to
the well-being of the planet.
Attendees at the event were encouraged to provide feedback, which will help shape the future of Kenya
Airways’ in-flight offerings. This interactive experience underscores the airline’s dedication to passenger
engagement, making customers feel heard and valued in the decision-making process.
“Through this event, Kenya Airways is not only elevating its in-flight dining but also redefining what
travelers can expect from their journeys,” Kilavuka stated.
He added, “We aim to ensure that every aspect of your flight is enjoyable, from takeoff to landing,
leaving you with delicious memories long after the plane has landed.”
As Kenya Airways continues to innovate and refine its services, travelers can look forward to a dining
experience that captures the essence of hospitality and flavor, making every journey not just a means to
an end but a delightful part of the adventure.


Ends…


About Kenya Airways:
Kenya Airways (KQ), The Pride of Africa, is Kenya’s national carrier and a leading African airline on a mission to
propel Africa’s prosperity by connecting its people, cultures, and markets. We fly to 45 destinations worldwide, 37
of which are in Africa, connecting over 5 million passengers and over 70,000 Tons of cargo annually through the
Hub at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

As the sole African carrier in the SkyTeam Alliance, we open up a world of possibilities for our customers,
connecting them to over 1,060 destinations in 173 countries. We take pride in offering a delightful flying
experience with a caring African touch. Our exceptional African hospitality has consistently earned us global
recognition including the prestigious Skytrax World Airline Awards where we were honoured with the Best Airline
Staff and Best Airline Cabin Crew in Africa in 2024.
For more information, visit www.kenya-airways.com or call our 24-hour Customer Services Desk at +254 20 327

  1. We are also available on X: @ KenyaAirways & @ KQSupport , Facebook: @ OfficialKenyaAirways, Instagram:
    @ OfficialKenyaAirways Tiktok: @officialkenyaairways
    For all media enquiries, please reach out to Kenya Airways Corporate Communications at
    Corporate.communications@kenya-airways.com.

See Full press release here:

Exclusive Product Selection for Elevated In-flight Dining Experience – Press Release (1)Download

KATA Hails MKTE Tourism Expo as a Catalyst for Boosting Kenya’s 2.5 million Visitor Target.

The Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) has praised the recently concluded Magical Kenya Travel Expo (MKTE) 2024 as a significant driver in helping Kenya achieve its goal of attracting 2.5 million tourists by the end of the year.

Speaking at the event, KATA Chairperson Dr. Joseph Kithitu highlighted MKTE 2024 as a pivotal platform for marketing Africa as a top travel destination. He encouraged industry stakeholders to continue participating in future expos to tap into emerging markets and keep Kenya at the forefront of global tourism.

“Kenya is the launchpad for Africa, and MKTE is the ideal platform for marketing the continent. With 1.8 million tourists already visiting Kenya by August, we are well on track to meet our target. Ongoing marketing efforts through expos like MKTE will showcase Kenya’s unique attractions to a global audience. The prospects are promising, and we anticipate an even bigger and better market presence at MKTE 2025,” said Dr. Kithitu.

Boosting Global Exposure

Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) CEO June Chepkemei, the event host, underscored the importance of the expo in elevating Kenya’s position as a preferred destination. The expo attracted over 180 international buyers from 35 countries, along with 4,000 delegates and 417 exhibitors.

“This exceptional turnout has greatly boosted our tourism industry. International buyers experienced Kenya’s diverse offerings firsthand and established valuable partnerships with local stakeholders, positioning Kenya to attract more visitors,” said Chepkemei. She reaffirmed KTB’s commitment to providing platforms that enable Kenya’s travel trade to access global markets cost-effectively.

Collaborations and Talent Development

In addition to engaging international buyers, MKTE 2024 fostered collaboration between tourism boards across Africa, discussing strategies for repositioning the continent’s travel fairs to match globally established exhibitions.

The expo also focused on growing the industry’s talent pipeline, with representatives from 17 universities present to discuss ways to nurture young talent. Chepkemei emphasized that such partnerships are crucial for creating jobs and opportunities for youth in the sector.

New Direct Flights from Asia to Nairobi

KATA CEO Nicanor Sabula commended the strategic move by AirAsia X (AAX) to introduce direct flights connecting Kuala Lumpur to Nairobi. This initiative is expected to enhance connectivity between Asia and Africa, driving tourism growth in both regions.

“The Asia-Pacific market is becoming increasingly important for Kenya, with over 320,000 tourists visiting in 2023. This new direct connection will stimulate economic growth, create opportunities for local businesses, and further position Kenya as a key destination for global travellers, particularly from Asia,” said Sabula. The flights, set to begin on November 15, 2024, will operate four times weekly.

Expanding Kenya’s Tourism Segments

A key highlight of the expo was the launch of the Digital Nomad Work Permit and the Transit and Long Connection Travellers Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) by President William Ruto. These initiatives aim to attract digital nomads and long-haul travellers, offering them the chance to explore Kenya’s diverse attractions seamlessly.

With these innovations and ongoing efforts, Kenya’s tourism sector is poised to continue its upward trajectory, positioning the country as a global tourism powerhouse.

Air France to launch free ultra-high-speed Starlink connectivity onboard all aircraft.

Air France is revolutionising its onboard WiFi service. From 2025 onwards, the airline will progressively roll-out an ultra-high-speed connectivity service for a ‘ground-like’ experience. This new service, completely free-of-charge in all travel cabins, will be accessible to customers by logging into their Flying Blue account. Over time, this WiFi service will be made available onboard all the airline’s aircraft, replacing the current offer.

Air France has chosen Starlink for high-speed, low-latency connectivity. During their flight, customers will be able to stay in touch with friends and family, follow all the world’s news live, play video games online, and stream TV, films, and series. The service will be accessible from smartphones, digital tablets, and laptops, and each customer will be able to connect several devices simultaneously.

Customers will be able to access the service by logging into their Flying Blue account, the Air France-KLM Group’s loyalty program. Those who do not yet have a Flying Blue account can create one free-of-charge onboard and in just a few clicks.

As of the summer 2025 season, Air France will gradually equip all its aircraft with this cutting-edge technology, including its regional fleet. During this transitional period, the airline will continue to offer a connectivity service onboard aircraft that are not yet equipped, including a free ‘Message Pass’ for Flying Blue members and a paid offer that covers other needs.

Ben Smith, CEO of Air France-KLM, will talk exclusively at FTE Global – the “CES of Aviation” – taking place in Los Angeles on 28-30 October 2024. He will share insights on the airline’s future plans and strategies for continued growth.

Source:    Future Travel Experience

Everything We Know About Kenya’s New Digital Nomad Visa.

Bryan Obala

Kata_kenya

Kenya is the latest country to announce a visa specifically for digital nomads.

The East African country’s President, William Ruto, reportedly made the announcement on October 2. According to Nation, the leader shared the exciting information at the Magical Kenya Travel Expo 2024 in the country’s capital, Nairobi. Discussing the “Digital Nomad Work Permit,” Ruto briefly outlined what traveling and expat remote workers can expect.

The Digital Nomad Work Permit will be “specifically designed to welcome global digital professionals, allowing them to live and work in Kenya while enjoying the country’s natural beauty and high-quality lifestyle,” Ruto reportedly said. “Kenya can be your home, where you and your family can experience the wonders of magical Kenya every day. All while serving clients from anywhere in the world on your digital platform.”

What Else Do We Know About Kenya’s Digital Nomad Work Permit?

Euro News reports that eligibility will require a valid passport, proof of remote work, a clean record, and evidence of accommodations in Kenya. An applicant’s annual income requirement will allegedly have to be at least $55,000. The government has not yet clarified when they will release applications, set deadlines, or determine the visa’s duration. It’s unclear if Kenya’s Digital Nomad Work Permit will lead to citizenship for applicants who want it.

Ruto revealed that a new electronic travel authorization system will be introduced for travelers passing through Nairobi, alongside the visa. Once registered via the authorization system, people will be able to leave the airport and explore Kenya’s capital during flight layovers.

The president reportedly boasted about Kenya’s booming influx of travelers and tourism in recent years. Describing the country as a “top global destination” with stunning terrains, wildlife, nightlife, and more, Ruto also highlighted the country’s “incredible diversity, with over 40 distinct cultures.”

There are currently only a few African countries that offer digital nomad visas, including Namibia, Cape Verde, and Mauritius.

Kenya Airways Operates First Flight Under European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Certification.

On 13th September 2024, Kenya Airways successfully operated its first flight fully staffed by accredited crew under the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Flight KQ554 from Nairobi to Kinshasa, today, marked this significant milestone for the airline, joining a select group of African carriers that have achieved this prestigious certification.

The crew are part of a 71 Kenya Airways personnel who have completed rigorous training to obtain the EASA Attestation Certificate, demonstrating their proficiency in managing safety and service functions on European registered aircraft.

“We are proud to have a significant portion of our cabin crew successfully complete the EASA training program, demonstrating their proficiency in meeting the rigorous requirements of this internationally respected certification,” the Chief Operating Officer, George Kamal, stated. “This accomplishment exemplifies Kenya Airways’ leadership in the African aviation industry and our preparedness to match international standards.”

The EASA Certification equips the KQ team to effectively manage safety and service operations on European registered aircraft during ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) operations. This reinforces the airline’s commitment to providing world-class aviation services and adhering to the highest international safety standards. “This milestone places our cabin crew in an advantageous position, benchmarked against global standards, and showcases our operational excellence,” notes Pauline Kihara, Head of In-Flight Services and Catering. “By aligning with one of the best regulatory frameworks in the world, we not only enhance the capabilities of our cabin crew but also strengthen the confidence of our passengers in the safety and quality of our services.”

The addition of EASA certification marks a new chapter in the history of Kenya Airways as the airline continues to strive to meet and exceed global standards. It also highlights the airline’s success in aligning ACMI operations with its regulations and standardizing cabin services. EASA compliance reaffirms Kenya Airways’ longstanding commitment to passenger safety and solidifies its position as a leading and innovative airline on the global stage.

AirAsia X executives visit KATA after opening the first sales office in Africa.

Bryan Obala

Kata_kenya

The Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) is delighted to announce a courtesy visit from the Chief Executive Officer of AirAsia X Mr. Benyamin Ismail and the Group Chief Commercial Officer of AirAsia Group Mr. Paul Carroll. The high-level delegation met with KATA board members to discuss the recent opening of AirAsia’s inaugural sales office in Africa, the upcoming inaugural flight to Nairobi on November 15, and the exciting opportunities available for travel agents to partner with the airline.

During the meeting, AirAsia executives expressed their enthusiasm for the African market and highlighted the potential for significant growth in the coming years. They emphasized the airline’s commitment to providing affordable fares and exceptional customer service, making it an attractive option for both leisure and business travelers.

KATA board of directors welcomed AirAsia’s expansion into Africa and expressed their support for the airline’s initiatives. They discussed the potential benefits of partnering with AirAsia, including increased revenue streams, access to new markets, and opportunities for professional development.

The meeting also focused on the support that travel agents can provide to AirAsia in promoting its services and attracting customers. KATA pledged its commitment to working closely with the airline to ensure a successful launch and ongoing partnership.

As AirAsia prepares for its inaugural flight to Nairobi, the airline’s presence in Africa is expected to have a significant impact on the continent’s tourism industry. With its affordable fares and extensive network, AirAsia is poised to become a major player in the African aviation market.

We see potential in this partnership and believe AirAsia‘s entry into the Kenyan market will create opportunities for our members, including new revenue streams and professional development, opening access to 150 underserved destinations and enhance connectivity. Air Asia will operate 4 flights a week and target 150,000 passengers annually.
Others present were Allenie Caccam Business Growth Head and Siew Lee Group Head of Sales and Distribution.

Ethiopian Airlines -Ethiopian Aviation University

Ethiopian Aviation University calls for international applicants for a cabin crew training program.

Our Basic Cabin Crew Training provides the perfect foundation, where training will be provided on airplane mock-up devices by expert instructors with an emphasis on safety and customer service. Get ready to take off for an exciting journey through the skies! Begin your aviation journey today!

Application Deadline: 31, October 2024

Apply Now: eau.edu.et

Email: etauinfo@ethiopianairlines.com | eaainfo@ethiopianairlines.com

Ethiopian Aviation Academy (EAA) is the largest and most modern aviation academy in Africa recognized as ICAO Regional Training Center of Excellence. To train aviation professionals from classrooms to full flight simulator training, EAA offers leading industry standard training for pilots, aircraft technicians, cabin attendants and ground services staff both for initial and recurrent students. The Leadership & Career Development Center is also training thousands in Management and Leadership Skills.

Our cabin crew training simulates real-time scenarios with training aircraft designed for emergency drills and service trainings. Our pilot training school uses light aircraft for its basic training with dedicated simulators. Full flight simulators of all fleets Ethiopian operates are available for flight training. Virtual Maintenance Trainers (VMTs) and various workshops feature our aircraft maintenance training. Beyond these, our academy develops standard training packages including e-learning and virtual classroom trainings. Trainee services include a trainee’s cafeteria, dormitories, an administration complex and a plush new auditorium. The academy plans to take in 4,000 students a year in its training programs.

In line with the rapid growth of Ethiopian Airlines Group, Ethiopian Aviation Academy has been upgraded to Ethiopian Aviation University, which will enable it to provide a broader range of educational programs and increase the level of expertise in the Aviation Industry. The University has been accredited by the Ethiopian Higher Education Relevance and Quality Agency (HERQA), to offer undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various aviation and hospitality fields.

Ethiopian Aviation University has been accredited by Ethiopian Higher Education Relevance and Quality Agency to offer undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various aviation and hospitality fields.

Currently, the University offers various aviation courses such as BSc in Aeronautical Engineering, Aviation Maintenance Engineering, Aviation Management & Operations, BA in Tourism & Hospitality Management, MSc in Data Science, MBA in Aviation Management. The University also offers Diploma and Certificate Programs in Aircraft Maintenance Technician, Pilot Training, Cabin Crew and Commercial Training, Leadership & Career Development, Catering Training in addition to ICAO and Online Courses.  Ethiopian also owns training facilities in other regional cities of the country including in Hawassa, Dire-Dawa, Bahir-Dar and Mekelle.

          Link to website https://corporate.ethiopianairlines.com/eaa

About Ethiopian

 Ethiopian Airlines Group (Ethiopian) is one of the fastest-growing airlines brand globally and the continent’s largest airline brand. In its seventy-eight years of successful operations, Ethiopian has become one of the continent’s leading carriers, unrivalled in efficiency and operational success. Ethiopian commands the lion’s share of the African passenger and cargo network operating the youngest and most modern fleet to more than 150 domestic and international passenger and cargo destinations across five continents. Ethiopian’s fleet category consists of ultra-modern and environmentally friendly aircraft such as Boeing 737s, 777s, 787s, Airbus A350-900 and De Havilland Q400.

 Ethiopian is also pursuing multi-hub strategy through hubs in Lomé, Togo with ASKY, in Lilongwe, Malawi with Malawi Airlines and in Lusaka, Zambia with Zambia Airways. Having achieved its strategic plan (Vision 2025) ahead of time, Ethiopian is currently implementing a 15-year strategic plan Vision 2035 that will see it become one of the top 20 most competitive and leading aviation groups in the world. Ethiopian has been champion in various coveted awards including Skytrax’s ‘Best Airline in Africa Award’ for seven consecutive years among others. The airline has been a Star Alliance member since 2011 and has been registering more than threefold growth in the past 10 years.

For more at: www.ethiopianairlines.com

Contact us on nbores@ethiopianairlines.com/nbocto@ethiopianairlines.com

+254 701 223 493 , 0701 223 970, +254 723 786 649,

Bruce House, Ground Floor, Muindi Mbingu Street, P.O. Box 42901 – 00100,Nairobi, Kenya,