National carrier Kenya Airways faces a cabin crew shortage that has forced it to cancel and delay flights, threatening its revenues over the peak festive season.
Confidential correspondences between KQ, as the airline is known by its international code, and the cabin crew reveal that the airline is desperate for the crews to operate its flights amid a sharp rise in bookings.
The cancellation and delays of flights that started as early as December 3, 2023, means that KQ will have to forego revenue and compensate some of its passengers stranded in various locations and have to be accommodated in hotels as they wait for the flights.
“(Good) Morning, should you be in a position to assist? Below are uncrewed today, December 3, 2023; KQ708-1FP, KQ002-1FA,” the carrier in an internal memo.
KQ did not respond to questions on the extent of the disruption of its flights though a spot check revealed that on December 13, flights KQ102-FA, KQ792-FA, KQ250-FP, KQ310-FP, KQ2-FA and KQ 624-FA did not have enough crew as per the law to fly.
For December 14, flights KQ 706-FP, KQ 482-FP, KQ256-FP, KQ762-4FA, and KQ704-FP faced similar challenges.
Seventeen flights have also been delayed in the last two days.
They include KQ2580 which was delayed by 6 hours 20 minutes, KQ610 (2 hours 20 minutes), and KQ612 (1 hour 15 minutes).
Sources familiar with the details said flight cancellations, especially for passengers heading to European destinations come with a heavy financial burden to the airline as the carrier must pay about Ksh92,000 ($600) per affected passenger in refund.
The shortfall in the number of cabin crew workers comes after KQ let go of some of its staff members in 2020 to cut costs due to depressed earnings caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
KQ Chief Executive Allan Kilavuka had on Tuesday hinted at the possible disruption of operations due to the crew shortage, coming just as the airline was recovering from interruptions caused by spare parts shortage that saw it ground some of its aircraft.
Read: Kenya Airways half-year loss more than doubles on forex losses
“The challenges of delayed spare parts delivery have eased… We are working closely with our partners and suppliers to expedite delivery and minimise further disruptions,” he said.
“In the wake of the flight disruptions, we are experiencing a ripple effect across our network, which in turn is impacting crew resources.” Mr. Kilavuka said on Tuesday.
KQ reported its biggest half-year loss of Sh21.7 billion in August, weighed down by heavy forex losses and a pile-up of debt that has upset its turnaround plan.
The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) is actively reaching out to African American travelers, aiming to provide them with immersive cultural experiences and adventure.
The Ag CEO of KTB, John Chirchir, highlighted Kenya’s unique appeal as a destination that combines cultural richness with biodiversity.
Chirchir expressed his enthusiasm about including the African American segment which represents 13% of the US population and ranks as Kenya’s third-best performing tourism market.
According to Chirchir, KTB’s goal is to “capture their interest, encouraging them to establish not only a connection with their African heritage but also with Kenya’s prominent role in global conservation efforts.”
During a recent familiarization tour, travel advisors and influencers explored Nairobi, the Maasai Mara, and the Kenyan coast, gaining destination knowledge, and providing valuable marketing insights.
Personalities like Gbenga Akinnagbe, Angelique Miles, Bevy Smith, and Iesha Reed participated in the week-long trip, leveraging their influence to reshape perceptions about Kenya and Africa.
Chirchir emphasized the importance of using influencers to present a diverse and rich image of Kenya, countering stereotypes perpetuated by foreign media.
According to KTB, Kenya aims to showcase its cultural wealth to a broader audience by using cultural festivals aligning with the preferences of culturally inclined global travelers.
Beginning January 1, 2024, travelers entering Kenya won’t require a visa, according to a Tuesday announcement from Kenya’s President William Ruto.
Kenya Visa Policy to become a new global trend.
With this move Kenya is taking a lead in the world, what the World Tourism Network sees as an emerging trend that should be advocated and supported by the global travel and tourism industry.
According to Ruto, Kenyan authorities have created a digital platform that guarantees every guest will obtain an electronic travel permit before arriving, obviating the necessity for a visa application.
“It will no longer be required for anyone, anywhere in the world, to bear the burden of obtaining a visa to visit Kenya,” he declared during a celebration honoring the nation’s 60th anniversary of breaking away from the United Kingdom.
Travel without Visa
Ruto has made a strong case for travel without a visa. He declared in late October that Kenya, the fourth nation on the continent, will provide visa-free entrance to all citizens of Africa by the end of 2023.
Following Minister of Tourism and Wildlife Alfred Mutua’s announcement in November at the World Travel & Tourism Council Global Summit in Rwanda that Kenya was considering doing away with visa requirements for travelers from outside of Africa, the country has decided to grant all visitors visa-free travel entrance.
Kenya’s Secretary of Tourism
Hon. Alfred Mutua may soon become a tourism hero like Kenya’s former Minister Najib Balala when he was honored as a hero by WTN at the World Travel Market London in 2021.
Kenya Secretary of Tourism Alfred Mutua had a successful career in the media and public relations. He is best known for his role as a television news anchor and journalist, working for Kenya Television Network (KTN) and later Citizen TV. His media career helped him gain recognition and popularity before he ventured into politics.
For many years a fellow African Country, Seychelles had kept up the concept of visa-free entry for all. Former minister St. Ange always said his country was welcoming to everyone and was an enemy with no country.
Kenya is setting a positive global example able to welcome visitors without putting stumbling blocks up. This will be an economic opportunity only a few countries in the world had so far.
World Tourism Network comments
World Tourism Network chairman Juergen Steinmetz said: “Congratulations Kenya for this move. It’s an eye-opener not only for Kenya but for every country to take a good look at.
In a digital world of AI, countries should be able to balance security concerns with fast electronic research data, to make tourism more accessible to anyone.
Apply for a Kenya e-visa.
The procedure of application has now been modified and simplified to a user-friendly mode that takes three simple steps. The E-Visa portal now has its dedicated website: www.evisa.go.ke. Visa approval is being done real time.
According to a social media post by Dubai Media Office on Friday, the crown prince said: “The tourism sector is a vital pillar of Dubai’s economy and is playing a key role in achieving the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.”
The briefing, attended by more than 1,200 industry professionals, revealed Dubai’s tourism sector continued to post record growth, reiterating an earlier report that showed it welcomed 13.9 million visitors from January to October 2023, up from 11.4 million during the same period last year.
As per the report, Pakistan was number ten in the rankings of countries from where the most visitors came into Dubai between Jan and Oct – some 286,000. India was in top place (1.9 million), followed by UK (954,000), Saudi Arabia (930,000), Russia (917,000) and Oman (860,000).
The briefing this week also highlighted that Dubai’s hotel occupancy of 76% remains among the highest in the world.
“Dubai’s robust partnerships with leading travel and hospitality companies are key to fostering the growth of this crucial sector, both on a local and global scale,” said Sheikh Hamdan.
“Hospitality is an integral part of the Emirati cultural fabric, a value deeply embedded in our ethos,” he said, adding that “Dubai remains dedicated to enhancing the infrastructure and services and making the strategic investments needed to provide an exceptional experience for visitors from across the world.”
Earlier this year, Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, had said the city’s multifaceted appeal caters to travelers of all preferences and means.
“Dubai provides mid-range hotels that match the service and amenities of many prominent full-service hotels around the globe, further enhancing the destination’s appeal for those in search of value for money during their stay, without compromising on the quality of the overall experience,” he had told Khaleej Times.
NAIROBI, Kenya, Dec 14 – Travel agents have welcomed a decision by the government to scrap visa requirements for all international visitors effective January 1, 2023.
Through their umbrella body, the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA), they said that the move reinforces the state’s commitment to strengthening ties with global partners.
President William Ruto announced during the Jamhuri holiday on Tuesday that the country will be opening its doors to all visitors.
The removal of visa requirements aligns with the African Union’s (AU’s) call to member states to eliminate barriers to international business, promote cultural exchange, and build communal relationships to speed up the integration process.
It further reinforces Kenya’s commitment to the realisation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to enhance the continent’s economic integration, facilitate the movement of people, and promote seamless trade and business activities.
KATA is now urging other AU member states to emulate Kenya’s example and eliminate barriers to promote intra-African travel and trade.
“While expressing appreciation for the President’s announcement, KATA urges government agencies to move with speed to issue proper guidelines on how the proposed Electronic Travel Authorization will be implemented,” KATA said in a statement.
“Considering that we are already in the peak holiday season, KATA would like to see a seamless process that does not inconvenience travelers who have already made their travel arrangements.”
Speaking on Tuesday during the Jamhuri Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens, President William Ruto said that the move is in line with Kenya Kwanza’s promise to abolish the requirement of travelers applying for a visa to visit Kenya.
To implement the new policy, Ruto said they had developed a new digital platform that will ensure all travelers to Kenya are identified in advance on an electronic platform.
“All travelers will obtain electronic travel authorization,” Ruto said.
“It is with great pleasure, as President of this extraordinary country to make a historic announcement of the decision of the Government of Kenya beginning January 2024, Kenya will be a visa-free country,” he added.
During the announcement, the Head of State stated that Kenya is humanity’s home, a scientific fact that fills us with pride and underscores our rich heritage.
“To echo the call of the Turkana people to the world: “Tobong’u Lorre!” Kenya has a simple message to humanity: Welcome Home! This is why, the government has abolished the requirement of visas for all our visitors,” Ruto stated.
Agreement for 11 787 Dreamliners and 20 737 MAXs, with opportunity for 36 more jets, represents the largest Boeing jet purchase by an African carrier.
Services collaboration for 787 cabin retrofits to enhance passenger experience.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, November 14, 2023 Ethiopian Airlines, the largest and leading aviation group in Africa, and its longstanding partner Boeing [NYSE:BA] today announced the carrier has agreed to order 11 787. Dreamliner and 20 737 MAX airplanes with an opportunity for 15 and 21 additional jets, respectively. The agreement, signed by Ethiopia’s national carrier at the Dubai Airshow, represents the largest-ever purchase of Boeing airplanes in African history.
“We are pleased to announce that Ethiopian Airlines has reached a deal with Boeing to place a firm order for 31 ultra-modern airplanes, with opportunity for 36 additional jets,” said Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew. “This order will enable us to modernize and increase our fleet in support of Ethiopian Airlines’ growth plan and our Vision 2035 Strategy. Through this deal, we have solidified our decades-old exemplary business partnership with Boeing. The 787 Dreamliner and 737 MAX demonstrate Ethiopian Airlines’ environmentally conscious decisions and its commitment to serve passengers with the latest technologically advanced airplanes.” Ethiopian is ordering the 787-9 variant, part of a Dreamliner family that reduces fuel use and emissions by 25% compared to the airplanes it replaces. The carrier is also adding the 737-8 model, which reduces fuel use and emissions by 20% and creates a 50% smaller noise footprint compared to the airplanes it replaces. Both families bring better environmental performance and passenger comfort to their respective markets.
The new commitment positions Ethiopian Airlines to further strengthen and diversify its fleet, which currently includes more than 80 Boeing jets. Ethiopian operates Africa’s largest Dreamliner fleet with a mix of 787-8s and 787-9s. The new 737 MAX order, which will grow the airline’s backlog for the fuel-efficient jet to 50, will be posted on Boeing’s Orders & Deliveries website when finalized.
Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines also agreed to work together to provide cabin modification services for the carrier’s existing 787 Dreamliners. The comprehensive retrofits will enhance the passenger experience with advanced in-flight entertainment and new seats in all cabins, including lie-flat business-class seats from Boeing joint venture Adient Aerospace.
“Ethiopian Airlines continues its leadership as one of Africa’s preeminent airlines with this landmark commitment to expand their 787 and 737 MAX fleets,” said Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. “Ethiopian was the first African airline to take delivery of the 787, and the Dreamliner family continues to play an integral role in its long-haul fleet. With their decades of experience operating our single-aisle and widebody jets, we appreciate Ethiopian Airlines’ confidence in our products and the strength of our relationship after more than 75 years of collaboration.” The 787-9 can fly 296 passengers 14,010 km (7,565 nautical miles), in addition to carrying substantial cargo. Since revenue service began in 2011, the 787 family has launched more than 380 new nonstop routes around the world. The 737-8 carries up to 210 passengers depending on configuration and offers a range of up to 6,480 km (3,500 nautical miles).
Boeing’s Commercial Market Outlook forecast for Africa projects the continent will need 1,025 airplanes over the next two decades; more than 70% of commercial deliveries are expected to be single-aisle jets. Africa’s overall air-traffic growth is forecast at 7.4% through 2042, third-highest among global regions and above the global average growth rate of 6.1%.
About Ethiopian Ethiopian Airlines Group (Ethiopian) is the fastest-growing airlines brand globally and the continent’s largest airline brand. In its seventy-seven years of successful operations, Ethiopian, the fastest growing airline, has become one of the continent’s leading carriers, unrivalled in efficiency and operational success. In addition to its main hub in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, it is also pursuing its multi-hub strategy through a hub in Lomé, Togo with ASKY, in Lilongwe, Malawi with Malawi Airlines and in Lusaka, Zambia with Zambia Airways. 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 Bombardier Dash 8-400 double cabin with an average fleet age of seven years. In fact, Ethiopian is the first airline in Africa to own and operate most of these aircraft.
Having achieved its strategic plan (Vision 2025) ahead of time, Ethiopian is currently implementing a 15-year strategic plan called Vision 2035 that will see it become one of the top 20 most competitive and leading aviation groups in the world by providing safe, secured, market driven and customer focused Passenger and Cargo Transport and Logistics, Aviation Training, Airport Management and Ground Services, MRO and Aerospace Manufacturing and Travel and Tourism Services. As a multi-award-winning airline, Ethiopian has been the champion in various coveted awards including Skytrax’s ‘Best Airline in Africa Award’ for six 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 Email: CorporateCommunication@ethiopianairlines.com Contact: (251-11)517-8913/8165/8907 Social Media Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EthiopianAirlines.official Twitter: https://twitter.com/flyethiopian Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fly.ethiopian/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCV26xfT57LiOgrZM45ouCg/featured LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ethiopian-airlines/ Telegram: https://t.me/ethiopian_airlines
About Boeing [NYSE:BA] As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures, and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability, and community impact. Boeing’s diverse team is committed to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on the company’s core values of safety, quality, and integrity. Join our team and find your purpose at
Contact: Nadine Fanous +971-56-422-9051 nadine.fanous@boeing.com Boeing Media Relations
Passengers travelling this holiday season through Kenyan Airways may have their flights interrupted for about two weeks.
The company announced on Friday that some of its aeroplanes may remain grounded for the period owing to challenges in acquiring aircraft spare parts.
KQ Group Managing Director and CEO Allan Kilavuka in a statement explained that due to the global challenge, the airline would extend grounding time for flights as a safety precaution.
“Our current flight schedule may experience disruptions in the coming weeks mainly due to challenges in the aircraft spare parts global supply chain. These challenges are leading to extended ground time of our aircraft for maintenance,” Kilavuka said.
“Additionally, this may also lead to grounding one or more of our aircraft in line with our commitment to the highest level for safety and reliability of our operations.”
He added: “We anticipate that these circumstances may persist for approximately two weeks, and we want to thank you in advance for your understanding and patience during this time. Your safety and comfort are our top priorities, and we are dedicated to resolving these issues as quickly and efficiently as possible.”
The CEO consequently advised its customers to check for updates on flight schedules on the company website and mobile applications.
“We are committed to providing you with timely information and support to help you navigate these potential challenges,” he stated.
While regretting the inconvenience caused, Kenya Airways reassured its customers that they are working to restore normalcy.
“We understand the impact that schedule changes can have on your travel plans, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. Please be assured that our team is working tirelessly to minimize these disruptions and to keep you informed every step of the way,” noted KQ.
Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA)- Media and Communications
The skies over Kenya are witnessing a surge in airfares, prompting concerns among travelers about the escalating costs of flights. As the world grapples with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, Kenya, like other nations, finds itself in the midst of a travel boom, reflecting the global trend that has seen airlines posting record profits.
Kenyan carrier Kenya Airways (KQ) reported substantial financial gains, attributing them to the renewed interest in travel. However, the enthusiasm is met with a harsh reality for passengers facing airfares between 20% and 30% higher than those in 2019, mirroring the European experience. This increase has also affected passengers flying on local airlines – the cost of flying within the country has risen significantly, impacting travelers financially.
The primary culprit behind this surge is the soaring cost of jet fuel, experiencing a staggering 50% increase, reaching a high of Sh309 per liter. This upward trajectory can be attributed to the doubling of Value Added Tax (VAT) on petroleum products to 16%, dealing a significant blow to the middle class, who often prefer air travel over road alternatives.
Amid disrupted supply chains and increased demand, the aviation industry in Kenya struggles to keep pace. Supply chain snarls have led to delays in aircraft deliveries and maintenance, forcing airlines to cut capacity. Like Europe, airlines in Kenya attribute these supply issues as a significant driver of the escalating prices.
Renegade Air, a prominent domestic airline in Kenya serving routes such as Kisumu, Wajir, and Homabay, anticipates a substantial impact on its ticket prices. The airline predicts an approximate increase of Sh500 for a one-way flight, underscoring the harsh reality faced by both airlines and passengers alike.
Traditionally, airlines meticulously consider various factors in determining ticket prices, including the dollar exchange rate, landing fees, navigation charges, and notably, the price of fuel—arguably the primary component shaping ticket costs. The recent surge in fuel tax, triggered by the increase in VAT, prompts an inevitable adjustment in domestic fares, amplifying the economic burden on travelers.
This surge in airfare costs unfolds against the backdrop of a resurging demand for air travel in Kenya. After the aviation industry nearly evaporated in 2020, the pendulum has swung, with demand reaching unprecedented levels in 2023. Airlines, struggling to keep pace with this newfound enthusiasm for travel, find themselves compelled to adjust prices to match the renewed demand. The industry’s drastic downsizing during the pandemic, running at 20% or less of normal operations, has left it ill-prepared for the current surge.
As the festive season approaches, the confluence of factors adds fuel to the fire of rising airfares. In response to this trend, the government’s intervention becomes pivotal. Building capacity by allowing more airline landing rights and facilitating direct flights to destinations like Mombasa could alleviate congestion at major airports, offering a potential reprieve for travelers. Increasing the frequencies for domestic carriers is another strategic move that could contribute to a slight reduction in airfares.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: — The countdown is on to the second edition of Skift Global Forum East (SGFE). The leading travel conference of Skift, and the annual Dubai Tourism Summit organized by Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), will be held at Atlantis the Royal from 12-14 December 2023. The three-part event will also feature DET’s bi-annual ‘City Briefing’ for industry stakeholders.
The Skift Global Forum East, the MENA extension of the renowned Skift Global Forum, promises to deliver incisive and inspiring insights into the future of the travel industry, exploring key innovations in marketing, strategy, and technology. The Dubai Tourism Summit, the world-class thought leadership program launched by DET during the inaugural Skift Global Forum East last year, is a networking platform for industry stakeholders to share their ideas, strategies, and best practices. The ‘City Briefing’ event brings together DET’s stakeholders and partners from across the aviation, travel, hospitality, and retail sectors to discuss the latest developments and future outlook for the industry.
Skift Global Forum East 2023 is set to attract an influential assembly of travel and tourism leaders, including CEOs, change makers, thought leaders and innovators from renowned influencers in global travel including Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai Airports, Google, Global Hotel Alliance, Accor, Emirates, Emaar Hospitality Group and more.
Key discussion topics will include the future of travel, air capacity challenges, the post-pandemic Chinese travelers, filmmaking to market destinations and how AI is shaping the future of travel, with a particular focus on the dynamic Middle East region. The Forum will also enable pertinent conversations around global consumer shifts, how destinations can build capacity and expand hospitality, the future of demographics, sustainability, and macroeconomic trends impacting the industry.
The forum kicks off with an opening night reception on 12 December 2023 at Cloud 22, Atlantis the Royal, providing attendees with an evening of networking and hospitality, allowing them to connect with like-minded industry leaders.
