National Carrier Kenya Airways (KQ) has announced plans to boost fleet capacity from 42 to 55 aircrafts.
KQ also hinted at plans to grow destinations from the current 48 to over 60.
The announcement comes four months after the airline received its second freighter, a Boeing 737-800 Freighter, bringing the total cargo fleet to four and offering customers and partners more cargo capacity on its global network, especially in the Middle East, Asia, and Africa.
“We plan to increase the number of our aircraft to 55 fleets in the next 5 years from the current fleet that we have of 42 aircraft." KQ Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Allan Kilavuka said.
According to Kilavuka, The acquisition will boost efficiency and result in revenue growth.
Kenya Airways (KQ) also aims to generate Kes 322 million from the sale of duty-free products to passengers by the end of 2024.
“The airline offers a convenient shopping experience, enabling customers to shop from their seats during flights or within the terminal. This year we are targeting a total of 322 million from our duty free sales products that we offer to our customers on board. Our product's packaging is done based on the route of travel.” Kenya Airways In-flight Performance Manager Michael Ithau, said.
According to Michael, The duty-free service was introduced as part of KQ’s strategy to boost revenue. The Products include international and travel-exclusive brands, offering a selection of women’s and men’s fragrances, accessories, jewelry, beauty products, watches and smart gadgets.
He highlighted that 80 percent of the products sold on board to passengers en route to various destinations are sourced from Africa.
“80 percent of the sales come from Africa particularly from our customers traveling to Johannesburg in South Africa ,Kigali Rwanda,Lagos Nigeria, Acra Ghana and free town,” Michael added.
KQ hit 203 million from it's duty-free sales products, surpassing its target of 167 million duty-free sales in 2023.
