Kenya Airways (KQ) has reported a strong operational performance, recording a 77 per cent load factor last year, as the airline continues to strengthen its presence in the Nigerian market and deepen partnerships with travel trade stakeholders.
The disclosure was made by the Country Manager of Kenya Airways in Nigeria, Mr. Mwangi James, during the airline’s colourful Award Party Night held to recognise travel agents, tour operators and industry partners that have collaborated with the carrier over the years, particularly in 2025.
Speaking at the event, Mwangi noted that the airline has witnessed steady growth in passenger demand, with its Boeing 787 Dreamliner now operating into Nigeria every other day, complementing the airline’s regular Boeing 737 operations.
The Kenya Airways executive said the improved load factor underscores the airline’s resilience and the confidence of passengers in its services, adding that partnerships with travel agents and other stakeholders have been instrumental in driving growth in the Nigerian market.
The award ceremony brought together leading travel agents, tour operators and key players from the aviation, travel and tourism sectors in celebration of the enduring relationship between Kenya Airways and its trade partners.
READ: Africa: Kenya Airways Pursues New Funding, Partnership to Drive Aviation Turnaround
Among the dignitaries in attendance were the Kenyan Ambassador to Nigeria, H.E. Isaac Keen Parashina, Stephen Ngamau, General Manager, Americas and West Africa at Kenya Airways, and Mr. Julius Thairu, Chief Commercial and Customer Officer, alongside other prominent figures from the aviation and tourism industries.
The event featured the presentation of awards to outstanding travel partners in recognition of their contributions to the airline’s growth and commitment to promoting travel between Nigeria, Kenya and other destinations served by the carrier.
Industry stakeholders at the event commended Kenya Airways for its continued investment in the Nigerian market and its efforts to strengthen connectivity between West Africa and the rest of the world through Nairobi, the airline’s hub.
The award night also provided an opportunity for the airline to reaffirm its commitment to working closely with travel trade partners to enhance customer experience, expand market opportunities and support the growth of tourism and business travel across Africa. With a strong load factor and increased deployment of its Dreamliner aircraft on the Nigerian route, Kenya Airways appears poised to further consolidate its position as one of Africa’s leading carriers while strengthening ties with the country’s travel and tourism community
