Kenya Airways Fuel Bill Skyrockets 72% Amid Global Oil Price Volatility

Kenya Airways is facing a significant increase in operating costs due to a sharp surge in fuel prices. The airline's fuel bill has jumped an estimated 72% compared to last year, driven by global oil price volatility and Middle East conflict. This increase is magnified for Kenya Airways, which relies heavily on imported fuel and faces local currency weakness.

The airline's fuel costs account for nearly half of its flight-related expenses, making it a major concern for the company's financial recovery. The sudden escalation in fuel prices is testing the fragile turnaround achieved by Kenya Airways after years of losses linked to heavy debt, currency swings, and the pandemic collapse in travel.

Industry estimates suggest that African airlines are being forced to reroute flights around Middle Eastern airspace due to conflict-related restrictions, adding to their costs. This has resulted in higher fuel burn, longer flight times, and increased crew costs for carriers like Kenya Airways.