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Kenya Airways Considers Boeing 767 Freighters to Meet Cargo Demand

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  Published in Business and Finance on Sunday, February 1st 2026 at 4:35 GMT by Flightglobal
      Locales: KENYA, UNITED STATES

Nairobi, Kenya - February 1st, 2026 - Kenya Airways is actively exploring the addition of Boeing 767 freighter aircraft to its fleet, a strategic move designed to address the escalating demand for air cargo services and bridge the gap until the highly anticipated arrival of its ordered Boeing 777F aircraft. The national carrier of Kenya has experienced a significant surge in cargo requests, particularly within the African continent, prompting the need for a short-term solution to capitalize on the opportunity and maintain a competitive edge.

Speaking to FlightGlobal, Kenya Airways CEO Allan Kilavuka confirmed the airline's assessment of the 767 freighter as a viable interim option. "We've been looking at 767 freighters, as we need to address this demand and provide a bridge until we get the 777F," Kilavuka stated. This signals a proactive approach from Kenya Airways to not only meet current demands but also to position itself for sustained growth in the air cargo market.

Currently, Kenya Airways primarily relies on passenger aircraft that have been converted for cargo transport. While this allows for some flexibility, it lacks the dedicated capacity and operational efficiency of purpose-built freighter aircraft. The introduction of even a small fleet of 767 freighters would represent a substantial increase in the airline's ability to move goods quickly and reliably across its network. This is especially crucial given the increasing importance of air freight for time-sensitive goods like pharmaceuticals, flowers, and high-value electronics.

The demand for air cargo in Africa has been steadily rising for years, fueled by economic growth, increased intra-African trade, and the growing e-commerce sector. However, the continent has historically lagged behind other regions in terms of air cargo infrastructure and capacity. Kenya Airways, with its strategic location as a regional hub, is well-positioned to become a key player in facilitating this growth. Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) is already a major gateway for cargo heading to and from East and Central Africa.

The Boeing 777F, when delivered, is projected to significantly expand Kenya Airways' long-haul cargo capabilities. This wide-body freighter boasts a substantial payload capacity, allowing the airline to serve major international markets more effectively. However, the delivery timeline for new aircraft is often subject to delays, and Kenya Airways is keen to avoid losing market share while waiting for the 777F. The 767 freighter offers a pragmatic solution, providing a meaningful increase in capacity at a lower investment cost and faster deployment timeframe.

Industry analysts suggest Kenya Airways is likely considering both passenger and freighter variants of the 767, potentially exploring the used aircraft market to accelerate the process and minimize capital expenditure. While a newer 767-300F would offer improved efficiency, a well-maintained passenger-to-freighter (P2F) conversion could provide a cost-effective entry point into dedicated cargo operations. Several companies specialize in P2F conversions, making it a readily available option.

Beyond the immediate capacity boost, the introduction of 767 freighters could also enable Kenya Airways to explore new routes and expand its cargo network. This could include direct flights to underserved markets or increased frequencies on existing routes. A dedicated freighter fleet also allows for optimized cargo handling and logistics, reducing turnaround times and improving overall service quality.

This strategic move by Kenya Airways aligns with a broader trend in the aviation industry, where airlines are increasingly recognizing the importance of cargo revenue. While passenger travel remains the primary source of income for many carriers, cargo operations are becoming increasingly profitable, particularly in light of global supply chain disruptions and the growth of e-commerce. Kenya Airways' investment in its cargo capabilities demonstrates its commitment to diversifying its revenue streams and ensuring long-term sustainability.

The airline's success in capitalizing on the growing African air cargo market will depend on its ability to secure the necessary financing, navigate regulatory hurdles, and effectively manage its expanded fleet. However, with a clear strategy and a proactive approach, Kenya Airways is well-positioned to become a leading air cargo carrier in the region.