Kenya Airways Plc (KQ) has announced key leadership changes, with Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Allan Kilavuka set to exit the airline as he proceeds on terminal leave ahead of the expiry of his contract, concluding six years at the helm.
In a statement, the Board of Directors praised Kilavuka’s leadership during one of the most challenging periods in the airline’s history.
He successfully steered the national carrier through the turbulence of the COVID-19 pandemic, rolling out critical cost-containment measures and strategic interventions that helped preserve operational viability.
Under his stewardship, Kenya Airways later recorded notable growth in revenues, passenger traffic, and freight volumes, reinforcing the airline’s sustainability and competitiveness.
The Board and management expressed their sincere appreciation to Kilavuka for his dedication, resilience, and service, wishing him continued success in his future endeavours.
To ensure continuity, the Board has appointed the airline’s Chief Operating Officer, Captain George Kamal, as Acting Group Managing Director and CEO, effective 16 December 2025. At the same time, a competitive recruitment process will be launched to identify a substantive successor.
Captain Kamal brings over 29 years of aviation leadership experience across African and Middle Eastern markets. His career spans frontline operations to executive leadership, having played a central role in transforming several airlines.
He most recently served as Operations Director at Air Arabia and as Chief Operations and Executive Officer at Iraqi Airways. He holds a Doctorate in Business Administration and a Master of Science degree in Aviation Management, with strong expertise in innovation, digitalisation, and advanced aviation systems.
The Board affirmed its full support for Captain Kamal as he assumes executive leadership during the interim period.
Looking ahead, Kenya Airways’ Board reiterated its commitment to completing the airline’s ongoing turnaround strategy, which prioritises operational reliability, long-term sustainability, and growth. Central to this strategy is the pursuit of a suitable strategic investor, with the backing of shareholders.
The Board concluded by thanking all stakeholders for their continued support of the national carrier.
By Dennis milimo
