- Kilavuka said the availability of the components has enhanced the airline’s operational efficiency.
- He said the airline will continue to work closely with its partners and suppliers to expedite the timely delivery of components and keep “disruptions, if any, down to a minimum.”
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Kenya Airways (KQ) aeroplanes that had been grounded have returned to service, the national carrier has announced.
The airline said the planes are now operational after it acquired a significant number of aircraft components.
“All our Boeing 787 Dreamliners fleet are now up and flying. Your safety and comfort are our priority, even as we work to resolve these challenges,” Kenya Airways Group Managing Director and CEO Allan Kilavuka said in a statement.
He said the availability of the components has enhanced the airline’s operational efficiency.
Kilavuka said the airline will continue to work closely with its partners and suppliers to expedite the timely delivery of components and keep “disruptions, if any, down to a minimum”.
He added that recovery from disruptions across its network is still ongoing.
“…our flight-deck crew roster has been impacted. However, a disruption management plan is currently being executed in conjunction with our pilots and pilots' union. We anticipate full recovery during this festive season,” he stated.
He said the airline will keep its customers updated by sending them a notification message in case of any changes in their flights.
Kilavuka asked customers to update their contacts with the airline as they move to ensure the travel experience remains as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
On July 25, 2023, KQ and Lufthansa Technik AG signed a long-term contract for the supply of aircraft components for the long-haul, Boeing 787-8 fleet.
The long-term contract allows KQ to receive the proven Total Component Support (TCS) from the Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) specialist until 2028.
It also gives KQ access to Lufthansa Technik's worldwide parts pool which will enable the national carrier to significantly increase the availability of spare parts for the Dreamliner fleet cost-effectively.
The contract covers the classic MRO and supply of components as well as AOG (Aircraft On Ground) support for various parts-pooling and logistics services.
“Due to increased demand in air travel, Kenya Airways embarked on a journey of returning to service aircraft that were parked during the pandemic,” Kilavuka said after the signing of the contracts.
He pointed out that there was a worldwide shortage of some raw materials negatively affecting some aircraft spare parts availability.