Kenya Airways Dreamliner Returns to Service, Boosting International Capacity
NAIROBI, Kenya – After months of reduced fleet capacity caused by grounded aircraft, Kenya Airways has announced the return of one of its Boeing 787 Dreamliners to service, beginning July 22, 2025. The move is expected to ease pressure on the airline’s international operations and improve scheduling reliability.
In a statement released Monday, Group Managing Director and CEO Allan Kilavuka described the aircraft’s return as a “significant milestone” for the airline’s operations and recovery strategy.
“The return of the Dreamliner will not only alleviate the capacity constraints—reduced by 20 percent due to the grounding—but also enhance our operational readiness to 85 percent, ensuring a smoother travel experience for our customers”
said Kilavuka.
The aircraft is one of three Dreamliners that had been grounded since late 2024 due to supply chain delays and parts shortages. The remaining two Dreamliners will be reintroduced in phases, with the second expected back in service by September 25, 2025, and the third by December 19, 2025.
More Aircraft, More Capacity
To further boost passenger and cargo capacity, Kilavuka revealed that Kenya Airways plans to add three new narrow-body aircraft to its fleet in the fourth quarter of 2025. This addition will introduce 528 extra passenger seats and increase the airline’s belly cargo capacity by 239 percent—a move aimed at addressing the surge in travel demand and growing cargo needs.
“With safety as the cornerstone of our operations and travel demand rising, we’re eager to provide passengers with greater comfort and more travel options,” Kilavuka said. “We look forward to welcoming travellers back aboard our Dreamliner.”
Kilavuka
Addressing Operational Disruptions
Acknowledging recent challenges, Kilavuka assured customers that Kenya Airways is actively working to resolve ongoing flight delays, cancellations, and schedule disruptions linked to the prolonged aircraft grounding.
“We understand the impact these issues have had on your travel plans and are doing everything possible to address them promptly,” he said.
Kilavuka
Kilavuka cited delays in acquiring essential aircraft parts as a major cause of the disruptions. He added that the airline is also optimizing its route network to better serve passengers and improve overall reliability.
“Our commitment to safety and customer well-being is unwavering. We thank our passengers for their continued understanding and support during this recovery period,” the airline said.
Kilavuka
The return of the Dreamliner marks a positive turn for Kenya Airways as it works to stabilize operations, strengthen fleet capacity, and regain customer confidence amid global aviation challenges.