Kenya Airways’ management is under renewed scrutiny after confirming that 11 of its aircraft remain grounded, representing roughly a third of the national carrier’s fleet.
Githunguri Woman Representative Gathoni Wamuchomba has demanded answers, highlighting inconsistencies in the airline’s public reporting and raising concerns over the use of taxpayer money.
Wamuchomba pointed out that Kenya Airways has issued varying figures on its non-operational aircraft over time.
“A spokesperson recently said 11 planes are grounded, managers mentioned eight, a former CEO claimed five, and earlier reports indicated three,” she noted on X.
The conflicting statements, published across Kenya Airways’ official social media accounts and in Business Daily and Nation newspapers, have fuelled questions over transparency.
The lawmaker also raised concerns about the financial burden on taxpayers.
She said staff—including pilots, cabin crew, engineers, and ground personnel—have been receiving half pay while taxpayers reportedly continue to cover lease payments for aircraft that have been idle for up to five years.
Wamuchomba contrasted this with international carriers, stating, “No other major airline, including Ethiopian Airlines or Middle East carriers, has had aircraft grounded for such a prolonged period due to spare parts shortages.”
Wamuchomba further highlighted Jambojet, a Kenya Airways subsidiary, which has maintained operational aircraft since 2020 and continues to access bank loans with Kenya Airways as guarantor.
She questioned why KQ, in contrast, has struggled with fleet maintenance, citing incidents where newer aircraft have broken down or been diverted to non-operational uses such as donations.
The legislator also criticized acting CEO George Kamal, who has overseen supply chain, flight operations, and technical services since March 2023.
Despite his role in operational management, Wamuchomba said the airline’s challenges have persisted, yet he was promoted rather than held accountable.