Inaccurate public commentary a threaten to Kenya’s aviation industry

Regardless of how many times clarifications are sought and provided, conspiracy theories seem destined to remain a perennial feature of Kenya’s aviation industry. Once again, Kenya Airways (KQ) has found itself at the centre of controversy, this time, as a result of legislators who have, regrettably, misrepresented the facts most egregiously.

In a strongly worded statement, Eldas MP Adan Keynan recently described the “Pride of Africa” as having “sunk into a deplorable state of dysfunction.” He further asserted that “what was once a beacon of national excellence and global competitiveness has today become a loss-making entity, crippled by mismanagement, entrenched cartels and reckless administrative decisions that have eroded public trust and investor confidence alike.”

Nothing could be further from the truth. Mr. Keynan’s statement reveals not only a profound misunderstanding of what it takes to operate a national carrier but also a lack of appreciation for the aviation industry itself – an industry that functions in extremis even at the best of times and that, at its most challenging, relies on national financial support merely to survive.

To begin with, KQ has achieved remarkable progress over the past five years, culminating in a net profit of Ksh 5.4 billion last year – the first positive result after more than a decade of losses. This turnaround reflects the airline’s commitment to operational excellence, demonstrated through effective cost management, strategic fleet and route optimization, and enhanced On-Time performance. Claims of mismanagement are thus negated.

Second, there is a glaring display of ignorance regarding the ownership structure of KQ, most notably, in the unfounded assertions that the airline’s fleet is owned and leased to it by shadowy cartels. Such mendacious claims might be dismissed as absurd were it not for the fact that they unjustly impugn the integrity of KQ’s Board and management. This is not the first occasion on which the national carrier has been compelled to correct the record, having repeatedly appeared before various parliamentary select committees to elucidate the complexities of its finance and operating lease arrangements. Details of these are publicly available in the company’s annual reports released over the years.

Kenya Airways makes Sh5.4 billion full-year net profit; highest in its history

When Keynan accuses KQ of “chronic flight delays, abrupt cancellations, and unannounced rescheduling,” he overlooks the profound impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, not only on KQ but on the global aviation industry as a whole. The post-pandemic period has been marked by severe supply chain disruptions, which have significantly delayed the return of aircraft to service following scheduled maintenance. KQ has been particularly affected by these circumstances, which lie entirely beyond its control, with up to 20 percent of its fleet grounded this year.

Despite these formidable challenges, Kenya Airways has performed commendably compared to other carriers across the Middle East and Africa. According to data from a Cirium Aviation Analytics report released for October 2025, Royal Jordanian ranked first in On-Time Performance with a score of 95.51% and a Completion Factor of 99.89%. Flyadeal followed with 91.60% and 99.33% respectively. KQ secured third place, achieving an On-Time Performance of 91.22% and an exceptional Completion Factor of 99.96%. The data clearly speaks for itself, decisively contradicting Keynan’s assertions.

The Board and management of Kenya Airways are committed to doubling the size of the airline over the next five years. This strategy recognizes the significant economies of scale that only large carriers can achieve, including cost savings through bulk procurement, a stronger market position, and reduced per-unit expenses. In line with this vision, KQ has placed orders for two 737 Max 8 aircraft, two 737 NGs, and one 777-300, which are expected to be delivered early next year. Additionally, the airline is actively engaging with strategic investors to support a more ambitious expansion agenda in the years ahead.

It is therefore necessary to caution against uninformed commentary regarding the national carrier. Such discourse may not only constitute an abuse of parliamentary privilege – allowing unverified allegations without legal accountability – but also undermine the airline’s relationships with existing and prospective partners. KQ relies on the confidence of lessors, suppliers, and potential investors, all of whom require ongoing assurance of the competence and integrity of the Board and management.

We strongly urge restraint in public discourse that could compromise these relationships or erode confidence in the broader Kenyan aviation sector. At stake are nearly 500,00 jobs linked directly or indirectly to aviation and approximately six percent of Kenya’s GDP. Those entrusted with legislative authority must adopt a philosophy of “trust but verify,” seeking the airline’s perspective before making assertions that may affect its reputation. It is only through such due diligence that both the national carrier and the sector it serves can continue to thrive.