Kenya Airways Faces Turbulence but Reaffirms Strategic Role in Africa’s Growth
Kenya Airways has reaffirmed its strategic importance as a key driver of regional connectivity and economic growth, despite posting challenging financial results for the year ended 31 December 2025.
Announcing the results, Chairman Kiprono Kittony said the airline’s performance must be viewed within the context of global aviation constraints, particularly supply chain disruptions that affected fleet availability.
“While our financial performance reflects a difficult year, this was largely driven by global supply chain challenges rather than weak demand,” Mr Kittony said, adding that travel demand remains strong and continues to underpin the airline’s long-term relevance.
The carrier’s operations were significantly affected by the temporary grounding of three Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft due to engine shortages and delayed maintenance, leading to reduced capacity on key routes.
Available Seat Kilometres (ASKs) declined by 18 per cent to 13,349 million, while passenger numbers fell by 13 per cent. Total revenue dropped by 14 per cent to KShs 161 billion, reflecting the reduced operational capacity.
Operating costs declined slightly by 3 per cent to KShs 167 billion, largely due to scaled-down operations and the carrying costs of idle aircraft. However, the airline recorded an operating loss of KShs 5.6 billion, with loss after tax widening to KShs 17.2 billion.
Acting Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer George Kamal said the airline operated in a complex environment characterised by high fuel and labour costs, supply chain disruptions and geopolitical uncertainties.
He noted that while the global aviation sector continued its recovery in 2025, supported by strong passenger demand, persistent challenges such as aircraft delivery delays and engine shortages continued to constrain growth.
Within Africa, structural issues including infrastructure limitations and high operating costs remain key pressures, although demand for air travel across the continent continues to support long-term growth prospects.
The airline also flagged external risks, including tensions in the Middle East, which could drive fuel price volatility and airspace restrictions, potentially increasing operational costs.
Looking ahead, Kenya Airways outlined a strategic focus centred on restoring capacity, improving financial stability and positioning the business for sustainable growth. Priorities include returning grounded aircraft to service, maintaining cost discipline and advancing capital-raising initiatives to strengthen liquidity.
According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), global passenger traffic is projected to grow by 4.9 per cent, while cargo volumes are expected to increase by 3.1 per cent, signalling a steady recovery in the aviation sector.
Mr Kamal emphasised that the airline’s value extends beyond financial performance, describing Kenya Airways as a critical enabler of trade, tourism and regional integration.
“The skies may be turbulent today, but our direction is clear — to build a stronger, more resilient and agile Kenya Airways,” he said.
