Kenya Airways has clarified that it is not broadly closing key destinations, but is instead reshaping its route network to improve profitability amid rising operating costs.
Speaking during a press briefing on June 12, Group Managing Director George Kamal said that the airline is undertaking a network review that may involve restructuring underperforming “thin routes” that are not profitable.
Kenya Airways said its route network is under constant review, with adjustments such as route combinations or temporary suspensions of unprofitable destinations rather than outright cancellations.
“Are we closing good destinations? Not everything has to shrink, but sometimes you have to reshuffle your network and look again at where you go. The routes, which we call the thin routes, or the routes which are not profitable or not making even, then we have to either join them with other destinations to have hubs or have them connected to other profitable points,” he said.
“Or the last thing you do is you temporarily hold that, hold flights to it, and operate to more viable destinations.”
Kenya Airways Plans to Jump Back to Profitability
The CEO noted that fuel now accounts for up to 52% of total operating costs in Africa, up from about 40%.
He added that several aircraft are currently grounded, including three Embraer units awaiting engines and landing gear, and two Boeing 787 Dreamliners undergoing heavy maintenance checks.
One of the aircraft is undergoing a 12-year heavy maintenance inspection locally in Kenya for the first time, a move the airline says will reduce costs.
Also Read: Govt Secures Kenya Airways Majority Stake in Ownership Shake-Up
Engine deliveries are expected in mid-June and mid-July, with the first aircraft projected to return to service between late July and early August as supply chain delays persist globally.
Beyond fleet recovery, the carrier is accelerating its long-term strategy, including cabin refurbishment, Wi-Fi installation across its fleet, and the introduction of Boeing 777 aircraft on the London route starting in July.
On cargo operations, the airline is targeting a significant expansion of market share from 11.8% at the start of the year to about 40% by year-end, supported by additional capacity and partnerships.
Also Read: Details of Kenya Airways’ 400-Seat Boeing 777 Giant Aircraft
Return of Boeing 777
At the same briefing, Kenya Airways Board Chairman Kiprono Kittony reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to openness, strong corporate governance, and long-term transformation as it works to return the airline to sustained profitability.
He said that the airline intends to operate as a fully transparent, publicly listed company guided by high governance standards and supported by what it described as a competent board and strong human capital.
Kittony expressed confidence that the carrier is already performing beyond expectations in some areas, but stressed that achieving full financial stability will require sustained effort, strategic decision-making, and long working hours amid a highly competitive aviation environment.
He also acknowledged the competitive pressures in the sector, noting that rival operators may have stronger financial backing and larger fleets.
Even so, he urged stakeholders, including customers and travel partners, to support the national carrier as it navigates restructuring and growth challenges.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates.
