Kenya Airways dismissed claims of aircraft parts looting, safety lapses and poor governance as misleading and unsupported, insisting its operations met strict regulatory standards.
Responding to a newspaper article, the airline defended its staff, maintenance practices and leasing decisions, and warned that unfounded allegations risk damaging public trust in a safety critical national institution.
It issued a firm rebuttal to claims published by The Standard newspaper alleging mismanagement, safety concerns and internal misconduct at the national carrier, describing the accusations as unverified and damaging.
In a press statement released on Thursday in Nairobi, the airline said it had taken note of the article headlined “Leases, looting and a grounded fleet expose turbulence at KQ”, published on January 15, 2026.
While acknowledging the importance of scrutiny, Kenya Airways stressed that accountability must be grounded in facts and context.
“As the national carrier, Kenya Airways recognises the importance of public scrutiny and open discourse,” the statement said, adding that such accountability must be grounded in verified facts, proper context, and a clear understanding of how the global aviation industry operates.
The airline said the article raised serious allegations regarding aircraft maintenance, safety, governance, leadership, and, most concerning, the integrity of Kenya Airways employees, but argued these were presented without evidence and without engagement with the airline or relevant aviation authorities.
Kenya Airways described suggestions that staff were involved in theft or sabotage as false and deeply unjust, insisting its employees operate under strict regulatory oversight.
“Kenya Airways employees perform their duties professionally and with integrity,” the statement said. “They are licensed, trained, certified, and continuously assessed under strict regulatory and internal controls.”
The airline said any theft or deliberate misconduct would be treated as gross misconduct, attracting dismissal and possible prosecution.
“There is zero tolerance for such behaviour,” it said.
Addressing claims of aircraft parts looting, Kenya Airways said the article had misrepresented normal industry practice.
It explained that the controlled transfer of serviceable components between aircraft is a globally accepted method used to maintain operations during parts shortages.
“The controlled and documented transfer of serviceable components between aircraft, under approved procedures, is a globally accepted practice,” the statement said, adding that every component is fully tracked, inspected, certified, and recorded.
Kenya Airways also rejected claims that it sources parts from unapproved dealers, saying all components are procured from audited suppliers with full airworthiness documentation and traceability.
On safety oversight, the airline emphasised that aviation is one of the most regulated industries in the world, with maintenance conducted under approved quality and safety management systems.
It said these processes are subject to continuous oversight by the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority and aligned with international standards.
Fleet availability was also addressed, with the airline saying it had consistently communicated the number of aircraft undergoing maintenance and the reasons behind it.
These include global shortages of engines and spare parts, extended overhaul timelines 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,” the statement said.
On aircraft leasing, the airline said lease rates reflect prevailing global market conditions, noting that constrained aircraft supply and high demand have driven up costs across the industry.
It said leasing decisions are made through competitive sourcing and established governance processes.
The airline said it remains committed to transparency and open engagement with stakeholders, while urging responsible reporting.
“We support informed discussion based on facts and verified information,” it said, warning against unfounded allegations that unfairly undermine confidence in our people.
Kenya Airways said its focus remains on restoring fleet capacity, stabilising operations and protecting the reputation of its employees and the country.
It added that it had taken up the matter with the publisher and was seeking advice on possible legal and administrative action to defend its brand and reputation.
