May 2025, Edition

Jambo, and welcome to the May 2025 edition of KQ Jetsetter. In this month's edition we share exclusive updates on our latest digital innovation—our inflight E-Menus. This initiative marks a major step toward becoming a more efficient, eco-conscious airline while enhancing the inflight experience for our customers. Explore our recent strategic partnerships, exciting events, awards, as well as frequency updates and travel information.

Thank you for staying connected!

CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

KQ Embraces Digital Innovation with Inflight E-Menus

As part of our broader commitment to innovation, sustainability, and enhancing the customer experience, we recently introduced Electronic Menus (E-Menus)—a major step forward in our journey to becoming a more efficient and eco-conscious airline. By replacing traditional paper menus with digital versions accessible via QR codes, we’re aligning with global aviation trends while reducing paper waste and operational costs.

The rollout will be implemented in four phases, starting with menu access on our website and integration into the Crew Mobility Solution. QR code tent cards will soon be available at check-in counters, lounges, and boarding gates, followed by discreet stickers placed in Business Class seats and bulkheads—ensuring ease of use without compromising safety or aesthetics.

As of 1st May 2025, all inflight menus are available digitally via a scannable QR code, with a plan to gradually phase out printed menus. This move not only streamlines our service but also reinforces our commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency. It’s a key step toward delivering a modern, seamless experience for our guests.

PARTNERSHIPS

Exploring Strategic Partnership Opportunities with Cuba

During a recent courtesy visit, our Group MD and Chief Executive Officer, Allan Kilavuka hosted the Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba to Kenya, Her Excellency Inés Fors Fernández, along with the Head of Chancery, Ibrahim Ortega Oquendo. The meeting focused on exploring potential areas of collaboration between Kenya Airways and Cuba.

Central to the discussion was the prospect of establishing a Kenya Airways route to Havana, Cuba’s capital. Ambassador Fernández highlighted the strategic importance of the Caribbean nation, noting that with a population of over 11 million, Cuba’s economy is largely driven by plantation agriculture, with key exports such as cigars, sugar, coffee, and tobacco—offering viable opportunities for cargo operations.

Mr Kilavuka reaffirmed our commitment to evaluating future possibilities for passenger services to Cuba. In the near term, however, he noted how we're particularly keen to explore cargo operations as a first step in establishing a presence in the Cuban market.

Also in attendance were our Chief Strategy & Innovation Officer, Hellen Mathuka, and Head of Government Affairs, Dalmas Okendo. In concluding the engagement, Mr Kilavuka extended a formal invitation to Ambassador Fernández to attend the upcoming Africa Aviation Innovation Summit in October 2025, which will be hosted by KQ in Nairobi, Kenya.

This engagements aligns with our broader vision to build strategic partnerships that enhance our connectivity, unlock trade potential, and position Kenya Airways as a key player in the global aviation landscape.

KQ, Kenya Rugby Union—Simba Team Partnership

On 24th May 2025, we signed a new partnership with the Kenya Rugby Union—Simbas Men’s 15s team, making us the official airline partner of the national team during the Rugby World Cup. This partnership aims to support the ongoing growth of Kenyan rugby by uplifting local talent and empowering African sports champions through a KES 15 million in-kind sponsorship set to run over the next 12 months.

During the signing ceremony at RFUEA Grounds in Nairobi, our Chief Customer and Commercial Officer, Julius Thairu, emphasised our commitment to this partnership. He highlighted how the collaboration is rooted in shared values of teamwork, tenacity, and transformation—the spirit that defines both rugby and our journey as the Pride of Africa. It also demonstrates our dedication to supporting local talent and empowering African champions to rise.

This collaboration is especially pivotal as the Simbas Men’s 15s team prepares for the qualifiers later this year, a journey Kenya Airways is proud to support. Kenyan rugby has thrived over the years, firmly establishing the country’s position in the top tier of the Sevens World Series in Africa, while also positioning the airline as a legacy sponsor.

Through the sponsorship of various sports events and initiatives, Kenya Airways aims to promote the development of athletic talent and further solidify Kenya’s status as a leading sporting nation.

EVENTS

A Bold Step toward Transformative Women’s Leadership at KQ

On 25th April 2025, the Pride Centre played host to a transformative gathering as EmpowHer held its flagship event—the Executive Presence Summit under the theme “The Power of Presence: Inspire, Influence, and Lead.” The summit brought together Kenya Airways women professionals and allies for a day dedicated to leadership, empowerment, and meaningful dialogue.

The event opened with a thought-provoking keynote, “The Silent Language of Leadership,” which explored how authenticity, confidence, and non-verbal communication contribute to effective leadership. Attendees were encouraged to view presence not as a mere performance, but as a genuine reflection of their identity and purpose.

Our Chief Innovation & Strategy Officer, Hellen Mathuka, who also serves as the EmpowHer Patron,  delivered a compelling address, reaffirming Kenya Airways’ dedication to advancing women into influential leadership roles. Her message resonated deeply, empowering participants to lead with intention and actively contribute to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace culture. 

The summit culminated with a panel discussion, “Presence with Purpose,” featuring accomplished leaders who shared insights on resilience, strategic self-branding, and self-awareness, critical attributes for navigating today’s dynamic business environment. 

The summit represents yet another milestone in EmpowHer’s mission to empower women across the organisation. By creating platforms for growth, connection, and leadership development, EmpowHer continues to drive forward a culture where women lead with confidence, clarity, and conviction.

KATA Chairman’s Breakfast Meeting

On 8th May 2025, we participated in the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) Chairman’s Breakfast Meeting held at the Mövenpick Hotel in Nairobi. The event brought together key stakeholders from the travel industry for an engaging morning of insights and networking. Representing Kenya Airways were our General Manager for East, Central, and Southern Africa, Rose Kiseli, alongside Senior Country Manager Rehema Ibrahim, and Commercial Managers Jennifer Njuguna and Martin Njoroge.

During the session, Rose Kiseli delivered a business update, outlining recent developments and reaffirming our commitment to nurturing strong trade relationships across the region. The event also served as a dynamic platform for discussing market trends, featuring an interactive questions and answers (Q&A) session where travel agents engaged directly with our team to exchange insights and ideas.

Such forums are instrumental in fostering industry partnerships and aligning on shared goals. We value the opportunity to connect directly with our trade partners and remain committed to ongoing collaboration to drive growth across the travel sector.

37th IATA Ground Handling Conference

Kenya Airways hosted the 37th IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) from 13th to 15th May 2025 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi. This significant three-day event brought together aviation leaders and stakeholders from around the world, providing an invaluable platform to connect, understand industry trends, and collaboratively address long-standing challenges in ground handling operations.

The conference was officially opened by our Chairman, Michael Joseph, who highlighted the importance of hosting the event in Africa and how it provides a unique opportunity to shine a spotlight on Africa. He further highlighted how, as a continent, we find ourselves at a fascinating juncture, a time of both significant challenges and exhilarating opportunities.

Themed around modernisation, collaboration, and innovation, the conference focused on strategic infrastructure development and the need for close coordination between airport authorities and airlines. Key topics covered in plenary sessions, workshops, and specialised tracks included ground operations, baggage tracking innovations, and evolving regulatory frameworks.

Our Group MD & Chief Executive Officer, Allan Kilavuka, also addressed the gathering. He highlighted the vital economic role of the aviation sector in Kenya, referencing an IATA report indicating that the industry contributes approximately KES 425 billion to the national economy. He further underscored the importance of the conference in responding to the sector’s pressing needs and that hosting the event here in Nairobi at this crucial time provides a vital platform to collaboratively tackle the challenges and opportunities highlighted in the study.

The successful event not only reaffirmed Kenya's position as a key East African aviation hub but also set the stage for continued transformation within the sector. It was an honour to facilitate such important dialogue and collaboration for the future of ground handling.

IATA Integrated Sustainability Program Workshop

From 12th to 16th May 2025, we proudly hosted the first-ever IATA Integrated Sustainability Program (ISP) workshop at the Pride Centre—marking a significant step forward in our sustainability journey. Organised in partnership with the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the workshop brought together staff from across departments for in-depth training led by IATA’s Sustainability team.

The sessions introduced practical frameworks for embedding sustainability into business operations, including ISO 20400 for Sustainable Procurement, ISO 26000 for Social Responsibility, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) performance monitoring. A key outcome was the launch of a customised ISP roadmap aligned with our strategic goals, designed to guide our sustainability efforts with measurable, long-term impact.

In attendance, representing KQ leadership, was our Chief Innovation & Strategy Officer, Hellen Mathuka alongside Ag. Chief Finance Officer, Mary Mwenga. Reflecting on the workshop’s impact, Ms Mathuka highlighted how the programme has equipped us with actionable tools to transform our sustainability vision into measurable outcomes, ensuring long-term value for our people, planet, and business. 

Looking ahead, we are finalising our sustainability policy, ESG management plan, and key performance indicators. These will serve as the foundation for an internal audit and eventual external assessment under the ISP framework.We are proud to be among the first African airlines piloting this transformative program as we advance our commitment to becoming a sustainability leader in aviation.

AWARDS

KQ Nominated For the 7th Kenya E-Commerce Awards

We are proud to announce our nominations at the 7th Kenya E-Commerce Awards 2025. The Kenya E-Commerce Awards aim to recognise and celebrate eCommerce excellence in a variety of digital retail companies across Kenya.

As a forward-thinking airline committed to delivering seamless travel experiences, we are thrilled to be shortlisted in the following categories: 

• Best Online Travel Booking Platform
• Best Cross-Border E-Commerce Platform

These nominations reflect our continuous efforts to enhance customer journeys through robust digital platforms and we need your help to bring these awards home!

Visit HERE to show your support and cast your vote before 11th June 2025.

FREQUENCY & TRAVEL UPDATES

Seychelles

Dreaming of turquoise water and luxurious escape? Fly 5x weekly from Nairobi to Seychelles and enjoy up to 15% OFF with promo code FIRMSEZ (Valid till 30th June 2025).

Freetown

Kenya Airways now operates an additional flight on the Freetown-Accra-Nairobi route. The new additional flight increases the frequency from 4x weekly to 5x weekly, offering you more travel options and flexibility.

Monrovia

Kenya Airways now operates an additional flight on our Monrovia-Accra-Nairobi route, increasing our flights from 3x weekly to 4x weekly. Enjoy enhanced connectivity with more travel options.

London Gatwick

Starting 2nd July 2025, enjoy our with direct flights from Nairobi to London Gatwick. Experience unmatched comfort aboard the Dreamliner, seamless check-ins, and the convenience of night travel. Arrive refreshed and ready for your London adventure!

Jet Byte: Did You Know?

Why the airplane windows are round-shaped?

Early airplanes had square windows, but engineers discovered a critical flaw: the sharp corners couldn't withstand the immense pressure differences at high altitudes, leading to structural fatigue and, in some cases, failure.

Round windows, with their smooth curves, distribute stress more evenly. This makes them significantly safer and more durable. Those rounded edges aren’t just for looks, they’re a key safety feature that helps ensure a smoother, safer flight for everyone!

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Editors: Alice Mwanza & Raymond Kigai.