Kenya Airways has responded to a recent media report alleging mismanagement within the airline, saying several claims were inaccurate and lacked proper context, while reaffirming its accountability to the Kenyan public and key stakeholders.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the national carrier said it had taken note of an article published by The Standard newspaper on January 15, 2026, titled “Leases, looting and a grounded fleet expose turbulence at KQ.” While acknowledging the role of public scrutiny and open discourse, Kenya Airways stressed that it operates under strict regulatory oversight and remains committed to transparency, corporate governance, and responsible management.
“That accountability must be grounded in verified facts, proper context, and a clear understanding of how the global aviation industry operates.
“The article raises serious allegations regarding aircraft maintenance, safety, governance, leadership, and, most concerning, the integrity of Kenya Airways employees.
“These allegations are presented without evidence and without engagement with the airline or relevant aviation authorities. Such reporting risks misleading the public and unfairly damaging trust in a highly regulated,
safety-critical industry.
“It is essential to state this clearly and unequivocally.
Kenya Airways employees perform their duties professionally and with integrity. They are licensed, trained, certified, and continuously assessed under strict regulatory and internal controls.
“Approved procedures govern their work, multiple layers of supervision, and routine internal and external audits. The suggestion that staff are involved in theft, sabotage, or any form of criminal activity is false and deeply unjust.
“Any act of theft or deliberate misconduct within Kenya Airways is classified as gross misconduct and attracts immediate disciplinary action, including dismissal and referral for legal prosecution. There is zero tolerance for such behaviour.
“Where issues arise, they are addressed firmly and transparently within established governance and legal frameworks.
“Kenya Airways operates within one of the most regulated industries in the world. Safety and airworthiness are not discretionary.
“They are mandatory conditions for our license to operate. Maintenance activities are conducted under an approved Quality Management System and Safety Management System, subject to continuous oversight by the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority and aligned to international aviation standards.
“Claims in the article referring to “parts looting” or “parts robbery” misrepresent standard, regulated aviation maintenance practices.
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“The controlled and documented transfer of serviceable components between aircraft, under approved procedures, is a globally accepted practice used by airlines to manage operational continuity during periods of global parts shortages.
“Every component involved is fully tracked, inspected, certified, and recorded. This process does not compromise safety and does not involve staff misconduct.
“Kenya Airways does not source aircraft parts from unapproved dealers. All parts are procured from audited and approved suppliers and installed with full airworthiness documentation and traceability.
“These processes are subject to inspection and audit by aviation authorities and independent oversight bodies.
“On fleet availability, Kenya Airways has consistently communicated the number of aircraft undergoing maintenance and the reasons for this, including global shortages of engines and spare parts, extended overhaul turnaround times, and supply chain disruptions
affecting airlines worldwide. Currently, five aircraft are undergoing scheduled maintenance, with defined plans for return to service ahead of the peak season.
“With regard to aircraft leasing, lease rates are determined by prevailing global market conditions. The aviation industry is experiencing constrained aircraft supply and heightened demand, resulting in elevated lease rates across the market.
“Kenya Airways undertakes competitive sourcing and concludes lease arrangements through established governance and approval processes, guided by commercial prudence and long-term sustainability.
“Kenya Airways remains committed to transparency, safety, and open engagement with stakeholders. We support informed discussion based on facts and verified information.
“We respectfully urge responsible reporting that accurately reflects regulated aviation practices and avoids unfounded allegations that unfairly undermine confidence in our people.
“Our focus remains on restoring fleet capacity, stabilising operations, serving our customers, and safeguarding the reputation of our employees and our country.
“We have taken up the matter with the publisher of the malicious and scandalous story to seek their rectification. We are also seeking the requisite advice on pursuing legal and administrative action to defend and protect the airline’s brand and reputation.
