Kenya Airways says grounded 787s will be flying again by year-end
September 1, 2025
Kenya Airways expects all of its grounded Boeing 787 Dreamliners to be back in service by the end of the year, following a difficult first half of 2025 marked by supply chain disruption and financial strain.
The Nairobi-based carrier confirmed that three of its nine Dreamliners – a third of its long-haul fleet – were taken out of operation earlier this year due to global shortages of engines and spare parts.
One aircraft has since rejoined the fleet in July, with the remaining two due to return later in 2025.
The airline reported revenues of KShs 75 billion (£429m) for the six months to 30 June, a 19% year-on-year decline attributed to lower passenger numbers and a 16% reduction in available seat capacity. Revenue was KShs 91 billion in the same period last year.
Kenya Airways reports losses for H1 2025
Passenger traffic fell by 14% compared with the same period in 2024.
At the same time, total operating costs were down 10% as the carrier scaled back flying, but fleet ownership costs rose by almost a third due to lease re-measurements and the addition of a Boeing 737.
Overall, Kenya Airways posted an operating loss of KShs 6.2 billion, reversing a KShs 1.3 billion operating profit a year earlier. The net result was a loss of KShs 12 billion, compared with a KShs 513 million profit in the first half of 2024.
‘Industry-wide challenges’
Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Allan Kilavuka said: “The first half of 2025 was defined by industry-wide challenges that directly impacted our performance, particularly the grounding of three of our aircraft.
“While the financial results reflect these headwinds, we have taken decisive actions to stabilise operations and protect the long-term resilience of Kenya Airways.”
Expressing optimism despite the difficult six months, Kilavuka said: “Even in the face of these challenges, passenger demand for international routes remains robust, underscoring the strength of our brand and the critical role Kenya Airways plays in connecting Africa to the world.
“We are encouraged by the resumption of one of our grounded aircraft, and we look forward to bringing the remaining two back into service, later in the year.”
Kilavuka added: “Our focus remains clear: restoring full fleet capacity, advancing cost optimisation, and completing our capital raising programme to strengthen our balance sheet. These measures will ensure we emerge stronger, leaner, and better positioned to deliver long-term value for our shareholders, customers, and partners.”
Despite ongoing pressure from inflation and volatile fuel prices, industry forecasts remain broadly positive. IATA expects passenger traffic worldwide to grow by 5.8% this year, though cargo volumes are predicted to expand by less than 1%.
Recovery plan
Since the Covid-19 pandemic, Kenya Airways has struggled with persistent financial losses, compounded by global supply chain challenges, high operating costs, and a heavy debt burden.
Despite these pressures, the airline has made progress with restructuring efforts and cost-cutting measures – and launched new routes.
Looking ahead, Kenya Airways said it is committed to executing its recovery plan, which includes restoring grounded aircraft, expanding available capacity, improving efficiency, and completing a capital raise to strengthen liquidity.
“Our recovery plan gives us confidence in our ability to navigate near-term challenges while building a more competitive and sustainable airline,” Kilavuka concluded.
