Kenya Airways has deployed a Boeing 747 freighter under a capacity purchase agreement to strengthen cargo capacity between Kenya and the United Arab Emirates, supporting exporters and easing logistics disruptions linked to regional geopolitical tensions.
The airline confirmed that the aircraft transported nearly 100 tonnes of cargo from Sharjah into Africa while carrying over 110 tonnes of exports from Kenya to the United Arab Emirates.
The cargo movement primarily supported Kenyan perishable exports, a critical sector that relies heavily on reliable and time-sensitive air freight connections to global markets.
Supporting Kenyan Exporters
According to Kenya Airways, the freighter operation helped maintain export flows for Kenyan producers, particularly those in the horticulture industry.
Perishable goods such as fresh flowers, fruits and vegetables make up a significant share of Kenya’s air cargo exports and require fast and reliable transport links to international markets.
The airline said the cargo operation also facilitated the movement of inbound shipments from the UAE that had been affected by geopolitical challenges in the region.
The disruptions have complicated some logistics routes, increasing the importance of dedicated freighter capacity.
Expanding Cargo Operations
The deployment forms part of a broader effort by Kenya Airways to expand its cargo capacity and strengthen its role as a logistics hub connecting Africa with global markets.
Through its cargo division, KQ Cargo, the airline supports exporters, freight forwarders and logistics firms by providing access to international freight networks.
The airline said increasing freighter capacity is aimed at ensuring businesses continue to access reliable cargo transport services despite global supply chain challenges.
Strategic Role of Air Cargo
Air freight remains a critical pillar of Kenya’s export economy, particularly for high-value and time-sensitive goods.
With rising demand for perishables in international markets, airlines operating in East Africa have increasingly invested in expanding cargo infrastructure and partnerships.
Kenya Airways said the latest freighter operation highlights the airline’s ongoing commitment to facilitating trade flows between Africa and key global markets.
“As we continue expanding our freighter capacity, we remain focused on supporting exporters, freight forwarders and businesses with reliable access to global markets,” the airline said.
The cargo flight also underscores the airline’s strategic position in regional logistics, leveraging Kenya’s location as a gateway for trade between Africa, the Middle East and international markets.
