NAIROBI, Kenya — Kenya Airways has restored one of its grounded Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft to service ahead of an anticipated global travel surge linked to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The aircraft officially rejoined the fleet on Saturday during a reception event at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport attended by Acting Chief Executive Officer George Kamal.
“We are happy to announce the return of one of our grounded Dreamliners to service ahead of the peak season,” the airline said in a statement.
The return marks a significant operational boost for the national carrier after several Dreamliners were grounded during the first quarter of 2025, cutting the airline’s operational capacity by about 20 P.c.
In March, Kamal disclosed that the airline expected the phased arrival of replacement engines between April and June, paving the way for the aircraft to gradually resume operations before the high travel season.
According to the airline, two Dreamliners are expected back in service before the peak season, while the remaining aircraft should return by June.
The Dreamliner fleet forms the backbone of Kenya Airways’ long-haul network, including its flagship direct route between Nairobi and New York City through JFK International Airport.
The aircraft are also deployed on key European routes serving London, Paris, and Amsterdam, while additional capacity has recently been added to the London Gatwick route.
Kenya Airways plans to increase Gatwick frequencies to five weekly flights beginning July 4, 2026, up from the three weekly services introduced in 2025 as demand continues to grow.
Across Asia and the Middle East, the Dreamliners serve destinations including Dubai, Mumbai, Guangzhou, and Bangkok.
The airline is also preparing to launch direct flights to Beijing later this year as more aircraft return to active service.
Within Africa, the aircraft continue to support high-capacity passenger and cargo operations to major business hubs including Johannesburg and Cape Town.
The restoration of the fleet comes as airlines worldwide position themselves for increased international travel linked to the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Industry projections estimate that between 2 million and 10 million international visitors could travel for the tournament, creating a major commercial opportunity for airlines operating transatlantic and North American routes.
Kenya Airways is expected to benefit from the travel demand through its direct connection to New York, one of the host cities for the tournament.
