Kenya Airways Plc (KQ) has announced a major leadership transition, with Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Allan Kilavuka set to exit the airline after six years at the helm.
In a statement, the Board of Directors said Mr. Kilavuka will proceed on terminal leave ahead of the expiry of his contractual tenure, marking the end of a period defined by resilience and recovery for the national carrier.
Mr. Kilavuka joined Kenya Airways at a critical time and led the airline through the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. During this period, he implemented robust cost-saving measures and strategic interventions that helped safeguard the airline’s operational viability. Following the pandemic, he oversaw a steady recovery marked by growth in revenues, passenger numbers, and freight volumes, reinforcing the airline’s sustainability and competitiveness.
“The Board and management of Kenya Airways express their sincere gratitude to Mr. Kilavuka for his diligence, service, and leadership, and wish him every success in his future endeavours,” the statement read.
To ensure continuity and a smooth leadership transition, the Board has appointed the airline’s Chief Operating Officer, Captain George Kamal, as Acting Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, effective 16 December 2025. At the same time, the Board will initiate a competitive recruitment process to appoint a substantive CEO.
Captain Kamal brings more than 29 years of aviation leadership experience across the Middle East and African markets. A seasoned industry executive, he has risen from frontline operations to senior leadership roles, playing a key role in transforming several airlines. His previous roles include Operations Director at Air Arabia and Chief Operations and Executive Officer at Iraqi Airways.
He holds a Doctorate in Business Administration and a Master of Science degree in Aviation Management, with demonstrated expertise in innovation, digitalisation, and advanced aviation systems.
The Board affirmed its full support for Captain Kamal as he assumes executive leadership during the interim period.
Looking ahead, Kenya Airways’ Board said it remains firmly focused on completing the airline’s ongoing turnaround strategy. The strategy prioritises operational reliability, long-term sustainability, and growth, and includes the continued search for a suitable strategic investor with the support of shareholders.
The Board also thanked all stakeholders for their continued support as the airline enters its next phase of leadership and transformation.
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