Kenya Airways (KQ) has announced a long-term strategic plan to expand its operational fleet to more than 50 aircraft by 2035.
The national carrier currently operates 34 aircraft.
Management indicates that achieving this target depends entirely on the airline securing external strategic investors.
The projected capital requirements for the multi-year acquisition program range between $1.2 billion and $2 billion, according to industry briefings.
Board Chairman Kiprono Kittony and Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Captain George Kamal are leading the discussions regarding the expansion framework.
The strategy aims to position Kenya Airways to capture a larger share of the African aviation market.
Passenger traffic across the continent is projected to double by 2040.
Aviation executives note that regional growth requires the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) to lower operational costs.
The airline plans to evaluate both narrow-body and wide-body models from major manufacturers to increase network capacity.
Supporters of the plan emphasize that improved regional connectivity is vital, because Africa cannot develop if regional centers remain isolated from each other.
The procurement of new aircraft will require formal approvals from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), along with internal integration reviews.
The current fleet includes regional jets and long-haul aircraft serving destinations across Africa, Europe, and Asia.
Management has prioritized operational efficiency, cargo capacity expansion, and digital infrastructure upgrades alongside the fleet procurement roadmap.
Persistent global challenges, including supply chain disruptions, manufacturing delays, and rising insurance costs, could influence the acquisition timeline.
The carrier intends to leverage its existing market share to attract international aviation lessors and financial partners.
Discussions with potential strategic investors remain ongoing as the board seeks to secure the necessary funding structures.
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