Kenya is poised to make aviation history as it hosts the 37th International Air Transport Association (IATA) Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) from May 13 to 15, 2025, in Nairobi.
This marks the first time the premier global ground handling forum is being held on African soil—a testament to the continent’s growing influence in the aviation sector. At the heart of this milestone is Kenya Airways (KQ), the national carrier and proud host of the event, which continues to play a pivotal role in shaping both African and global aviation.
The IGHC is the world’s leading annual gathering for ground handling professionals, bringing together over 800 delegates from airlines, airports, ground service providers, and manufacturers. This year’s theme, “Elevate,” focuses on uplifting people, ground handling, and baggage practices while advancing innovation and automation. The conference will feature a dedicated stream on baggage operations, addressing topics such as real-time baggage tracking and the transition to electronic bag tags. IATA
Hosting the IGHC in Nairobi underscores Africa’s increasing prominence in the global aviation landscape. It also highlights Kenya Airways’ commitment to excellence in ground operations, as evidenced by its recent IATA Safety Audit for Ground Operations (ISAGO) accreditation for its Nairobi hub.
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Established in 1977, Kenya Airways has grown into one of Africa’s leading airlines, connecting 45 destinations worldwide, including 37 across the continent. As the only African carrier in the SkyTeam Alliance, KQ offers its passengers access to over 1,060 destinations in 173 countries.
The airline has been at the forefront of promoting intra-Africa trade and connectivity, facilitating economic growth and regional integration. By connecting Kenya with numerous African cities, KQ enables businesses to explore new markets and fosters cultural exchange across the continent.
Kenya Airways has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation. In 2023, it became the first African airline to operate a long-haul flight using Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), flying from Nairobi to Amsterdam. This pioneering effort earned KQ the ‘Best Innovation’ and ‘Most Impactful Breakthrough’ awards at the 2023 Sustainable Flight Challenge Awards.
Building on this achievement, KQ partnered with a local SAF producer to establish Kenya’s first SAF production plant. This initiative aims to deliver affordable SAF to Kenya and the region, create jobs, and boost tree cover by cultivating energy seed plants on arid and degraded lands.
Additionally, Kenya Airways has implemented innovative solutions to reduce single-use plastics onboard, such as introducing traditional African bread baskets and aluminum food containers in economy class, eliminating 24 tonnes of plastic waste annually.
After years of financial challenges, Kenya Airways reported an operating profit of 10.53 billion shillings ($80.38 million) in 2023, marking its first since 2017. This turnaround was driven by a 53% increase in revenue and a 35% rise in passenger numbers.
The airline’s CEO, Allan Kilavuka, has been instrumental in steering this recovery. His leadership was recognized in 2024 when he received the African Aviation Leadership Award for his exceptional contributions to the development of aviation in Africa.
Kenya Airways has also been a trailblazer in promoting diversity and inclusion within the aviation industry. In 2014, Captain Irene Koki Mutungi became the first African female Boeing 787 Captain, a significant milestone that inspired many across the continent.
As Kenya hosts the IGHC 2025, the event represents more than just a conference; it symbolizes Africa’s ascent in the global aviation arena. With Kenya Airways at the helm, the continent is poised to play a more significant role in shaping the future of air travel, grounded in excellence, innovation, and sustainability.
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