Kenya Airways has strongly dismissed allegations of mismanagement, safety lapses, and staff misconduct raised in a newspaper article published on January 15, describing the claims as unsubstantiated and misleading.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the national carrier said the article, headlined “Leases, looting and a grounded fleet expose turbulence at KQ,” presented serious accusations without evidence or engagement with the airline or aviation regulators, risking public misinformation and unfairly undermining confidence in a highly regulated industry.
Kenya Airways emphasised that its employees operate with professionalism and integrity, noting that all staff involved in safety-critical operations are licensed, trained, certified, and subject to continuous internal and external audits. The airline described allegations suggesting staff involvement in theft, sabotage, or criminal activity as “false and deeply unjust.”
The airline reiterated that any form of theft or deliberate misconduct is classified as gross misconduct and attracts immediate disciplinary action, including dismissal and referral for prosecution, adding that it maintains a zero-tolerance policy on such behaviour.
Addressing claims of “parts looting” or “parts robbery,” Kenya Airways said the assertions misrepresented standard aviation maintenance practices. The airline explained that the controlled transfer of serviceable components between aircraft is a globally accepted and tightly regulated practice used to manage operational continuity during global spare-parts shortages. All components, it said, are fully tracked, inspected, certified, and documented, with no compromise on safety.
Kenya Airways further clarified that it does not source aircraft parts from unapproved dealers, stating that all parts are procured from audited suppliers and installed with full airworthiness documentation and traceability under the oversight of aviation authorities.
On fleet availability, the airline noted that it has consistently communicated the number of aircraft undergoing maintenance and the reasons behind it, citing global engine and spare-parts shortages, extended overhaul timelines, and supply chain disruptions affecting airlines worldwide. It disclosed that five aircraft are currently undergoing scheduled maintenance, with defined plans in place for their return to service ahead of the peak season.
Regarding aircraft leasing, Kenya Airways said lease rates are determined by prevailing global market conditions, adding that constrained aircraft supply and high demand have driven up lease costs across the industry. The airline said all lease arrangements are concluded through established governance and approval processes guided by commercial prudence and long-term sustainability.
The airline said it remains committed to transparency, safety, and open engagement with stakeholders, while urging responsible reporting that reflects verified facts and regulated aviation practices. Kenya Airways confirmed that it has taken up the matter with the publisher and is seeking legal and administrative advice to protect its brand and reputation.
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