Kenya Airways widened its first-half net loss to Sh16.1 billion as aircraft shortages, higher maintenance costs and a 66% surge in fuel spending outweighed revenue growth in the six months to 30 June 2026. Revenue rose about 9% to Sh81.25 billion, while operating costs climbed to roughly Sh91.9 billion. The Nairobi-based carrier also highlighted recovery efforts around a Boeing 787-8 and a Boeing 777-300ER, with cargo emerging as a rare bright spot.
The loss compared with Sh12.2 billion a year earlier, despite stronger passenger demand and an 18% increase in cargo revenue to about Sh8.8 billion. Fuel costs reached Sh29 billion, while maintenance expenses remained elevated as global engine and spare-parts shortages kept aircraft grounded for longer than planned. Acting chief executive George Kamal, acting chief financial officer Mary Mwenga and chairman Kiprono Kittony are steering a recovery plan centred on restoring fleet availability, improving reliability and on-time performance, and strengthening the balance sheet.
The airline expects more engines from September and is targeting full fleet recovery in early 2027. A capital raise and search for a strategic investor remain part of the broader turnaround programme as Kenya Airways works to convert demand into profit more effectively.