Kenya Airways, Star Alliance, Fleet, Customer Service, & Contacts
Kenya Airways
Kenya Airways Ltd., or simply Kenya Airways, takes you on a journey through the Kenyan skies. Our story began in 1977, following the breakup of East African Airways. Our headquarters reside in the vibrant neighborhood of Embakasi in Nairobi, and our aviation hub is none other than the illustrious Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
While the airline was initially in the capable hands of the Kenyan government, winds of change blew through the clouds in April 1995. By 1996, we pulled off an aviation first for Africa – privatization. Kenya Airways now thrives as a public-private partnership.
The biggest kid in our shareholder playground is the Kenyan government, holding a 48.9% stake. The KQ Lenders Company 2017 Ltd (owned by a consortium of banks) owns 38.1%, while KLM brings a dash of Dutch flavor with their 7.8% stake. As for the remaining shares, they’re like the stars in the African night sky – held by private owners. Our shares are traded on the Nairobi Stock Exchange, the Dar es Salaam Stock Exchange, and the Uganda Securities Exchange.
But the adventure doesn’t stop there. In June 2010, we took to the skies as part of the SkyTeam, and we’ve been proudly soaring under their wings ever since. We’ve also been a proud member of the African Airlines Association since our inception in 1977.
So, if you’re ready for an African adventure, hop on board with Kenya Airways. We’re here to make your journey through the skies a wild and unforgettable one!”
Kenya Airways Early Days
Kenya Airways took to the skies on January 22, 1977, with the Kenyan government at the helm. It was an exciting new chapter in Kenyan aviation, made possible by the dissolution of the East African Community and the subsequent end of East African Airways (EAA).
The inaugural flight happened on February 4, 1977, with two Boeing 707-321s borrowed from British Midland Airways. These aircraft embarked on their journey, starting with the Nairobi–Frankfurt–London route.
For local and regional flights, KQ utilized aircraft previously operated by the EAA consortium, including a trusty Douglas DC-9-52 and three reliable Fokker F-27-200s. As they spread their wings, the airline added three Boeing 707s to our fleet, swooping them up from Northwest Orient in late 1977.
The following year, Kenya Airways expanded its horizons by establishing Kenya Flamingo Airlines, a charter subsidiary. This new addition borrowed aircraft from the parent airline, enabling KQ to offer international passenger and cargo services.
In those early years, Aer Lingus played a crucial role by providing Kenya Airways with technical and management support. It was the dawn of a new era in Kenyan aviation, and Kenya Airways was ready to take flight.
As of August 2023, Kenya Airways proudly connects travelers to 44 unique destinations through an extensive network of 61 diverse routes. Your journey, our destinations
Star Alliance
KLM played a pivotal role in supporting Kenya Airways’ journey to join the SkyTeam alliance. In mid-2005, KLM sponsored Kenya Airways’ candidacy process. This collaboration culminated in Kenya Airways becoming an official SkyTeam Associate Airline in September 2007. The airline went on to achieve full membership status within the SkyTeam alliance in June 2010. This strategic alliance significantly enhances the travel experience for KQ passengers, granting them access to a vast global network and top-tier passenger facilities offered by the member airlines.
Kenya Airways Customer Service
When it comes to providing top-notch customer service, KQ soars above the rest. This airline takes your travel experience seriously and is committed to ensuring that every passenger enjoys a smooth and pleasant journey, from booking your ticket to touching down at your destination.
Here are some highlights of KQs’ customer service:
1. Friendly and Knowledgeable Staff: From the moment you step into their offices or interact with them online, you’ll be greeted by friendly and knowledgeable staff. They are well-versed in all aspects of your travel needs and ready to assist with booking, baggage inquiries, special requests, and more.
2. Easy Booking Process: Kenya Airways makes booking a breeze. Whether you prefer to reserve your ticket online, over the phone, or in person, their booking process is designed to be hassle-free. They offer various payment options to suit your preferences.
3. Timely Communication: Keeping passengers informed is a top priority. KQ ensures that passengers are notified of any changes to their flights promptly. They provide updates on flight statuses, gate changes, and more via SMS, email, or their website.
4. Special Services: If you have unique requirements, such as traveling with a pet, requiring special assistance, or dietary preferences, Kenya Airways is there to accommodate your needs. Just let them know in advance, and they’ll ensure your journey is tailored to your specifications.
5. Frequent Flyer Program: KQ rewards its loyal passengers through the Flying Blue loyalty program. The more you fly with Kenya Airways, the more you can enjoy benefits like priority check-in, extra baggage allowance, and exclusive lounge access.
6. Cargo Services: Kenya Airways isn’t just about passengers; they also excel in cargo services. They offer efficient and reliable cargo transportation, ensuring your goods reach their destination on time.
7. 24/7 Support: Whether it’s a quick question or an urgent matter, Kenya Airways provides 24/7 support. Their dedicated customer service team is always ready to assist passengers in need, no matter the time or day.
8. Online Resources: Their website is a valuable resource for passengers. You can check flight statuses, manage your booking, and find essential travel information. Plus, you can reach out to their customer service team online.
In a nutshell, Kenya Airways takes pride in offering excellent customer service. They understand that a happy passenger is a returning passenger.
Baggage Allowance: Packing Your Troubles Away.
Flying with Kenya Airways is like embarking on a luggage-laden adventure. Let’s unpack the baggage details in a fun and informative way:
Basic Economy Ticket ( 1 checked luggage, 23kgs Max): If you’re keeping it basic (or you’re a baggage minimalist), you’re allowed one piece of checked luggage. But here’s the catch – it can’t bulk up beyond 23kg. So, be sure to leave behind that collection of antique anvils!
Premium Economy Tickets(2 checked luggage, Double weight): Now, if you’re the type who likes to bring along the kitchen sink (or maybe just a bit more than that), KQ has your back! With a premium economy ticket, you get to check in not one but two suitcases. That’s right, double the luggage love! So, pack those spare bowling balls, your antique typewriter collection, or even those mysterious heavy objects you’ve been lugging around.
Remember, when it comes to baggage, it’s all about finding that perfect balance between “I’ve got everything I need” and “I can still lift my suitcase.” Happy travels.
Kenya Airways Soars with a Modern Fleet
As of its latest update in 2023, Kenya Airways boasts a modern and diverse fleet of aircraft, ready to take you to your destination in comfort and style. Here’s a glimpse of their current fleet:
1. Boeing 787-8 (9 in service)- Known for its exceptional fuel efficiency and passenger comfort, Kenya Airways operates several Boeing 787 Dreamliners. These aircraft are perfect for long-haul flights, with spacious cabins and modern amenities. Capacity-145 passengers.
2. Boeing 737-800 – The airline has a fleet of 8 Boeing 737s, a workhorse for short to medium-haul routes. These planes are known for their reliability and efficiency with a total capacity of 234 passengers.
3. Embraer E190-E2 (15, in service)- Kenya Airways has also invested in the Embraer E190-E2, a narrow-body jet with impressive fuel efficiency and passenger-friendly features. 96 passengers.
4. Boeing 737-300SF (2, In service), These are cargo planes
This diverse fleet of 34 planes allows Kenya Airways to serve a wide range of destinations, from regional African cities to intercontinental travel. The airline prioritizes safety, efficiency, and passenger comfort, making your journey a pleasant one. So, whether you’re flying across Africa or around the globe, Kenya Airways has the right aircraft to get you there
Kenya Airways Contacts
Need to Get in Touch with KQ? Here’s How!
Whether you’ve got questions, feedback, or just want to say hi, Kenya Airways is just a call or message away. Reach out to them through these global contact options:
Global Tel: Give them a ring at +254 734 104 747. If you prefer good old-fashioned phone calls, this is the number to dial.
Global Mobile: Got a mobile? Reach Kenya Airways at +254 711 024 747. They’re just a call away, no matter where you are.
Global WhatsApp: For a more instant connection, use WhatsApp at +254 705 474 747. It’s quick and easy, just like chatting with a friend.
Global Email: For those who like to take their time crafting messages, send an email to customer.relations@kenya-airways.com. They’ll get back to you when you’re ready.
So, whether you’re a talker, a texter, or an email pro, Kenya Airways is all ears and ready to assist you. Get in touch, and they’ll be happy to help with your travel needs!
