Kenya Airways has successfully operated its first flight, fully staffed by an accredited crew under the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Flight KQ554 from Nairobi to Kinshasa on September 13, 2024 marked this significant milestone for the airline, joining a select group of African carriers that have achieved the certification.
The crew are part of a 71 Kenya Airways personnel who have completed rigorous training to obtain the EASA Attestation Certificate, demonstrating their proficiency in managing safety and service functions on European-registered aircraft.
“We are proud to have a significant portion of our cabin crew successfully complete the EASA training program, demonstrating their proficiency in meeting the rigorous requirements of this internationally respected certification,” the Chief Operating Officer, George Kamal, stated. “This accomplishment exemplifies Kenya Airways’ leadership in the African aviation industry and our preparedness to match international standards.”
The EASA Certification equips the KQ team to effectively manage safety and service operations on European-registered aircraft during ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) operations. This reinforces the airline’s commitment to providing world-class aviation services, adhering to the highest international safety standards.
“This milestone places our cabin crew in an advantageous position, benchmarked against global standards, and showcases our operational excellence,” notes Pauline Kihara, Head of In-Flight Services and Catering. “By aligning with one of the best regulatory frameworks in the world, we not only enhance the capabilities of our cabin crew but also strengthen the confidence of our passengers in the safety and quality of our services.”
The addition of EASA certification marks a new chapter in the history of Kenya Airways as the airline continues to strive to meet and exceed global standards. It also highlights the airline’s success in aligning ACMI operations with its regulations and standardizing cabin services. EASA compliance reaffirms Kenya Airways’ longstanding commitment to passenger safety and solidifies its position as a leading and innovative airline on the global stage.