Kenya Airways (KQ) recently took delivery of a Boeing 737-800. This latest addition to the fleet is part the airline’s operational turnaround dubbed Kifaru 2, a strategy that seeks to grow, sustain and excel in the national carrier’s business. The new aircraft will not only help to increase KQ’s capacity but will also enhance the operational efficiency necessary in meeting air travel demand within the airline’s network.

There are many compelling reasons behind the curation of this particular model of aircraft. This article focuses on three. The first is that it is a replacement of the Embraer 190 popularly known as the E-jet. The E-jet has been part of the KQ fleet for a decade now. It was initially intended for the development of new low traffic routes across the continent because of its relatively lower service entry and operational costs. However, as these routes matured, the E-jet suffered constraints on account of its small baggage hold. This has, on occasion, created challenges during peak season, leading to the offloading of bags, especially when flights are full.

The Boeing 737-800 is a much bigger plane. At 160-plus passengers, it takes on more passengers and baggage than the E-jet’s 96 passengers and thus eliminates the issue of disrupted/delayed baggage. Further, it features CFM56-7B engines that ensure fuel efficiency and reduced operational costs favourably comparable to the E-jet.

While the E-jet is unbeatable in terms of fuel efficiency over short-haul routes, it does not come with the 737-800’s range and capacity measured in Available Seat Kilometres (ASK). ASK is important during peak seasons when demand is at its highest. The extended range also means the airline’s fleet of wide-body planes can be augmented by the 737-800 for out-of-the-continent flights.

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Second, the new plane, whilst not the latest in the Boeing family, is mature technology. Wikipedia defines mature technology as “technology that has been in use for long enough that most of its initial faults and inherent problems have been removed or reduced by further development.” New planes may have the advantage of the latest technology reflected in enhanced inflight entertainment and quieter and more comfortable cabins.

They also offer better aerodynamics, reduced emissions and overall economics. However, there may be downsides in exposure to aircraft systems and engine technology that is not mature, resulting in unexpected maintenance costs, grounding and disruption of networks. One remembers issues of exploding batteries when Boeing 787s were first put into service. Or the MCAS mishaps that led to the grounding of the entire 737 Max 8 fleet globally.

KQ’s latest acquisition has been tried, tested and found true over the past decade. Further, the airline’s Maintenance, Repairs and Overhauls department is trained and equipped to handle this equipment. It has recently acquired European Air Safety Agency (EASA) certification, meaning that European airlines with similar planes can be maintained by Kenya Airways engineers and technicians.

Third, the new plane has been acquired on an operating lease. In such an arrangement, a plane is procured from a lessor for a specific period then returned once the lease expires. Airlines may recourse to operating leases to meet sudden surges in air travel demand. They may also sign such leases when there are constraints in the supply of new equipment.

According to Centre for Aviation (CAPA), “the global commercial aircraft backlog reached a record high of 16,738 at the end of 2024.” This was informed by low production rates with manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus struggling to meet production targets. CAPA further adds that supply chain issues with raw materials like titanium and labour shortages have exacerbated the issue. With fewer new planes in the market than can meet current demand, leasing becomes a viable option.

Kenya Airways is experiencing a period of sustained growth in demand. In 2024, the airline reported a 43 percent growth in passenger numbers compared to the previous year. It has increased its frequencies to key routes on the continent, with double dailies in some instances.

It also intends to launch new routes, starting with direct flights from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to London Gatwick in July of this year. To meet this demand, it has signed an operating lease with Dubai Aerospace Enterprise, a globally reputable company, for the supply of the Boeing 787-800. This is even as other plans are made to increase the current fleet to over 50 planes in the next ten years.