Kenya Airways Leases More Aircraft as Demand Grows

Kenya Airways is expanding its fleet capacity by leasing four additional aircraft to meet growing demand. The airline plans to acquire two Boeing 737-800 Next Generation planes before the end of 2026, which will be used for short- and medium-haul routes.

The new aircraft can carry between 162 and 189 passengers depending on configuration, increasing Kenya Airways' available capacity on these routes.

In addition to leasing two Boeing 737-800s, the airline is also seeking to lease a wide-body Boeing 777-300ER. This plane would provide additional capacity equivalent to about 400 seats and give operational cover when its existing 77-300ER plane is undergoing maintenance or grounded unexpectedly, as per Group Acting CEO George Kamal.

Kenya Airways currently has six aircraft grounded, with two undergoing maintenance and four awaiting engine parts expected in September. The airline aims to return all its planes to service.