Nairobi, Kenya, 16th February 2025….Kenya Airways (KQ) has expanded its fleet with the addition of a Boeing
737-800, growing its fleet to 35 aircraft. This addition is part of KQ’s ongoing fleet expansion strategy. It underscores the airline’s commitment to increase capacity, enhance operational efficiency, and meet the growing demand for air travel across its network. The acquisition of the aircraft from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) has a capacity of 170 seats, and will immediately boost KQ’s available seat inventory, thus offering guests more travel options and flexibility.
Allan Kilavuka, Kenya Airways Group Managing Director & CEO, said that adding the aircraft is a testament to KQ’s proactive approach to securing resources that align with its long-term growth objectives and its commitment to its turnaround strategy, Project Kifaru 2.
“The addition of this B737-800 marks a pivotal moment in our fleet expansion journey. It will increase our seat
capacity and is a demonstration of our ability to adapt and grow in a challenging operating environment, even as the global aviation industry faces challenges in aircraft availability. These efforts are part of Kenya Airways’ broader strategy to enhance its network, improve connectivity, and deliver exceptional service to its guests.”
The additional aircraft comes at a critical time when Kenya Airways is actively pursuing opportunities to expand its fleet through strategic partnerships with leading aircraft manufacturers and lessors. The airline is engaged in advanced discussions to secure additional aircraft, focusing on narrow and wide-body models offering increased seat capacity and operational efficiency.
“We are committed to building a robust and modern fleet that supports our vision for growth,” added Mr Kilavuka. “The acquisition of the B737-800 aircraft from DAE is a great milestone in our long-term partnership and solidifies our relationship as we work together in the future. It is also a clear signal to the aviation industry that Kenya Airways is a reliable and forward-thinking partner. We invite other partners to join us on this journey as we expand our operations and strengthen our position in the global aviation market.”
Firoz Tarapore, Chief Executive Officer of DAE, also noted “We are pleased to announce the delivery of this aircraft to Kenya Airways, marking a significant milestone in our 20-year partnership and reaffirming our long-standing relationship. The addition of this Boeing 737-800 to Kenya Airways’ fleet will help meet the growing demand for regional travel and further expand their network. We congratulate the Kenya Airways team on their continued success and look forward to supporting this partnership for years to come.”
KQ’s proactive approach to fleet expansion and its ability to secure timely resources highlight the airline’s resilience and commitment to growth. The airline remains confident in attracting partnerships with global aviation lessors, leveraging its strong market position and reputation as a leading African carrier.
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About Kenya Airways:
Kenya Airways (KQ), The Pride of Africa, is a leading African carrier on a mission to propel Africa’s prosperity by
connecting its people, cultures, and markets. We fly to 44 destinations worldwide, 36 of which are in Africa,
connecting over 5 million passengers and over 70,000 Tons of cargo annually through our 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 honored 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
- We are also available on Twitter: @KenyaAirways & @KQSupport, Facebook: @OfficialKenyaAirways, and
Instagram: @OfficialKenyaAirways.
For media enquiries, please contact Kenya Airways Corporate Communications:
Corporate.communications@kenya-airways.com
About Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE)
Dubai Aerospace Enterprise is a globally recognized aircraft leasing and services company, offering aircraft leasing and financing solutions, as well as provides maintenance, repair, and overhaul services across the world. DAE Capital is the aircraft leasing and finance arm of DAE (Dubai Aerospace Enterprise) with a fleet comprising of of turboprop regional aircraft, single-aisle and wide-body, passenger and freighter aircraft. With continued airline expansion accelerating developments in the global aerospace industry and with its headquarters in Dubai, DAE plans to meet the global demand for new aircraft, particularly in the Middle East, Africa and Asia.
