Kenya Airways: Brief History

Kenya Airways is the official and flag carrier of Kenya. It was established after the dissolution of the East African Airways in the year 1977. Kenya Airways is headquartered in Nairobi with its hub at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

Pictured are Kenya Airways planes parked at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport near Nairobi (file image)

Kenya Airways began as state property of the Kenyan government until April 1996, when it was privatised. This made Kenya Airways the first African flag Carrier to be successfully privatised. Although it has been privatised, the Kenyan government holds the major shares with a controlling percentage of 48.9%, 38.1% owned by KQ Lenders Company 2017 Ltd, and KLM which owns 7.8% stake in the aviation firm.

Kenya Airways has a fleet size of 40 aeroplanes and travels to 53 destinations worldwide.

Kenya Airways Limited is one of the leading airlines in Africa and the world. By 2016, Kenya Airways could boast of 3,398 employees. The airline joined the Sky Team in June 2010 and has been a registered member of the African Airlines Association since 1977.