The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Kenya Airways (KQ) recorded a wider net loss of Sh16.1 billion in the first half of 2026, up from Sh12.2 billion during the same period last year, as rising operating expenses continued to weigh on the airline’s financial performance.
The carrier’s operating costs increased to Sh91.9 billion in the six months ending June, compared with Sh80.7 billion a year earlier.
Click here to join our WhatsApp Channel
KQ attributed the increase largely to higher fuel expenses, aircraft maintenance costs and other operational expenses.
Fuel costs climbed by 32 percent amid rising international oil prices associated with the conflict involving Iran, which disrupted global fuel supplies.
The increase in international oil prices also pushed up petroleum prices in Kenya. In May, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) raised the price of kerosene, a fuel used by commercial airlines, by Sh38.60 per litre.
In Nairobi, the price of kerosene now stands at Sh191.38 per litre, compared with Sh152.78 previously.
KQ Board Chair Kiprono Kittony said jet fuel prices surged by 66 percent as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East intensified, resulting in a 32 percent increase in the airline’s fuel costs.
The airline also experienced operational difficulties after three Boeing 787 Dreamliners were grounded, while several smaller aircraft were undergoing maintenance.
KQ said the combination of soaring fuel prices, aircraft maintenance and operational disruptions contributed significantly to its weaker financial results during the first half of the year.
