NAIROBI, Kenya – Kenya Airways has announced the return of one of its grounded Dreamliner aircraft to service, a key step in restoring its international flight capacity following months of disruptions.
In a statement issued Monday, Group Managing Director and CEO Allan Kilavuka described the move as a “significant milestone” for the airline, as it works to overcome operational challenges caused by aircraft grounding and global supply chain issues.
“The return of the Dreamliner will not only alleviate the capacity constraints that had shrunk by 20 per cent but also enhance our fleet capacity back to 85 per cent, ensuring a smoother travel experience for our customers,” Kilavuka said.
The restored Boeing 787 Dreamliner—grounded since late 2024—is expected to re-enter service on July 22, 2025, bringing some relief to the airline’s long-haul network, which had suffered from reduced frequency and persistent delays.
More Aircraft Set to Follow
Kilavuka confirmed that two other grounded Dreamliners will be gradually returned to service:
- The second aircraft will resume operations by September 25, 2025
- The third by December 19, 2025
To further boost fleet strength, Kenya Airways also plans to introduce three narrow-body aircraft in the fourth quarter of 2025.
These will offer an additional 528 passenger seats and a 239 per cent increase in belly cargo capacity, aimed at meeting growing demand and supporting the airline’s cargo operations.
“With safety as the cornerstone of our operations and travel demand surging, we are eager to provide our passengers with additional capacity and comfort,” Kilavuka said.
Addressing Delays and Customer Concerns
The airline has faced criticism in recent months over flight cancellations, delays, and schedule changes—largely attributed to parts shortages and grounded aircraft.
Kilavuka acknowledged the disruptions and assured customers that KQ is working to resolve the issues swiftly.
“We understand the impact these issues can have on your travel plans, and we are committed to addressing them promptly,” he said. “Our commitment to your safety and well-being is unwavering.”
He added that Kenya Airways is actively optimizing its route network to address demand and improve reliability, even as it faces pressure from regional competitors and parliamentary scrutiny over its finances.
