Kenya Airways aims to double cargo revenue in five years

Kenya Airways is on a mission to increase its cargo business from 10% of its total revenue today to at least 20% in five years. During the airline’s AGM in Nairobi in June, CEO Allan Kilavuka said the carrier would add two converted B737-800 freighters to its fleet and, potentially acquire another widebody freighter in the longer term. IBA data shows airlines in Africa operate around 10 B737-800 freighters, converted by Boeing, IAI or AEI, including Allied Air (Nigeria), Egypt Air, Rwandair, Express Air Cargo (Tunisia), Serve Air Cargo (DRC) and Air Algerie, which all operate one, while Ethiopian has four. Jonathan McDonald, manager classic and cargo aircraft and ISTAT-certified senior appraiser, noted that, typically, a B737-800 freighter offered up to 24 tonnes of capacity, or 12 pallet positions, ideal as a general freighter. While KQ is in the process of acquiring a widebody freighter, neighbouring Air Tanzania recently took delivery of the first factory-built B767F on the continent. “When committing to widebody freighters, one key consideration is whether the intended routes or network offer a basic balance of traffic, which is very important in ensuring overall profitability of the operation,” said Terence Im, managing consultant at Lufthansa Consulting.<br/>