Kenya Airways has said its fuel costs surged by 72 percent in the first half of 2026, as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to put pressure on global energy prices and disrupt the supply of aircraft spare parts.
According to reuters.com, the airline, one of Africa’s largest carriers, said the sharp increase in fuel expenses, coupled with delays in aircraft maintenance and parts deliveries, was putting further pressure on its operations and financial performance.
Acting Chief Executive Officer of Kenya Airways, George Kamal, disclosed the development on Wednesday while speaking to journalists in Nairobi ahead of the airline’s 2026 half-year results, which are expected to be released early next week.
“We have been heavily impacted by the war, with fuel prices rising by 72 percent in the current half year,” Kamal said.
According to him, fuel now accounts for as much as 50 percent of the airline’s total operating costs, making the surge a major challenge for the carrier.
Kamal said the airline was also dealing with delayed deliveries of aircraft spare parts, reduced aircraft availability and rising global inflation, all of which could affect its revenue and overall performance.
He noted that while the global shortage and backlog in aircraft supplies were affecting airlines around the world, Kenya Airways was particularly vulnerable because of its relatively small fleet of about 40 aircraft.
“We have demand, every route we deploy … it’s full, so we need the aircraft as soon as possible,” Kamal said.
Kenya Airways is currently awaiting the delivery of two Boeing 737 aircraft. Two other aircraft that were expected to be delivered in April were rejected after failing inspection tests, according to the acting CEO.
The limited availability of aircraft could constrain the airline’s ability to take full advantage of strong passenger demand across its network, at a time when higher fuel and maintenance costs are squeezing margins.
Kamal said the airline was therefore reviewing its expenses and commercial arrangements in an effort to protect its finances.
“We are reviewing every single contract at KQ (Kenya Airways) and finding how to save every dollar because our profit per seat is just $1.50 and we have to save every dollar we make,” he said.
The latest challenges come as Kenya Airways continues efforts to strengthen its financial position following a difficult 2025 financial year.
The carrier reported a pre-tax loss of 17.93 billion Kenyan shillings ($138.56 million) last year, following a rare profit in the previous period, with lower revenues contributing to the deterioration in its performance.
The airline’s forthcoming half-year results will provide a clearer picture of the impact of higher fuel prices, aircraft availability constraints and supply-chain disruptions on its financial performance during the first half of 2026.
With passenger demand remaining strong, the airline’s ability to secure aircraft, control costs and maintain operational reliability is expected to remain critical to its recovery efforts.
