In a significant milestone for the African aviation industry, Kenya Airways has successfully operated its first flight staffed entirely by crew accredited under the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Flight KQ554, which flew from Nairobi to Kinshasa today, marked the airline’s entry into an exclusive group of African carriers with this prestigious certification.
The crew on board were among the 71 Kenya Airways personnel who recently completed intensive training to obtain the EASA Attestation Certificate, which demonstrates their ability to manage safety and service functions on European-registered aircraft. This certification is essential for the airline’s compliance with international safety standards, especially for Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance (ACMI) operations on European aircraft.
“We are proud to have a significant portion of our cabin crew successfully complete the EASA training program,” said George Kamal, Chief Operating Officer at Kenya Airways. “This accomplishment exemplifies Kenya Airways’ leadership in the African aviation industry and our preparedness to meet the highest international standards.”
The EASA certification is widely regarded as one of the most stringent and respected in global aviation. It equips Kenya Airways’ crew with the skills necessary to manage both safety and service operations under the rigorous standards required by European regulations.
Pauline Kihara, Head of In-Flight Services and Catering at Kenya Airways, emphasized the significance of this achievement for both the crew and passengers. “This milestone places our cabin crew in an advantageous position, benchmarked against global standards, and showcases our operational excellence. By aligning with one of the best regulatory frameworks in the world, we not only enhance the capabilities of our cabin crew but also strengthen the confidence of our passengers in the safety and quality of our services,” Kihara noted.
Kenya Airways’ EASA-certified crew will now be better equipped to serve passengers on European-registered aircraft, bringing the airline in line with top international carriers. This certification ensures that the crew is prepared to handle the complexities of ACMI operations while maintaining high safety and service standards.
Kenya Airways’ successful completion of EASA certification is not only a testament to the airline’s commitment to passenger safety but also a boost to its global standing. As the airline continues to expand its operations and seek new partnerships, this certification positions it as a serious player in the international aviation arena.
“This milestone marks a new chapter in our history,” Kamal added. “It highlights our success in aligning ACMI operations with global regulations and further standardizing our cabin services. EASA compliance reaffirms our longstanding commitment to passenger safety and solidifies our position as a leading and innovative airline on the global stage.”
Kenya Airways’ achievement sets a benchmark for other African carriers, showcasing that the continent’s aviation industry can meet and exceed global standards. As one of Africa’s most prominent airlines, Kenya Airways continues to lead the way in improving service quality, safety, and compliance with international regulations.
With its EASA-certified crew now in operation, Kenya Airways is well-positioned to enhance its service offerings, attract new passengers, and build stronger ties with international aviation markets. This achievement not only marks a milestone for the airline but also reflects the broader progress being made in Africa’s aviation sector.
As Kenya Airways continues to set new standards, passengers can look forward to an even safer and more seamless flying experience, assured by the airline’s commitment to excellence.
