Kenya Airways Takes Delivery of First Boeing 787 Dreamliner

Kenya Airways has taken delivery its first Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

The 787 is one the world's most technologically advanced airplanes with composite materials making up 50% of the primary structure by weight, including the fuselage and wing. In addition to bringing big-jet ranges to midsize airplanes, the 787 will provide Kenya Airways with improved fuel efficiency.

"The delivery of our first ever 787 Dreamliner not only opens a new chapter for our airline, but also for Kenya," said Dr. Titus Naikuni, chief executive officer, Kenya Airways. "The 787 will enable Kenya Airways to explore new markets, improve its economic performance, provide passengers with revolutionary comfort, while continuing to contribute towards the sustainable development of Africa."

Features of the Dreamliner include larger, electronically-dimmable windows and larger overhead luggage bins. During flight the 787 is also pressurized to a lower cabin altitude than most other aircraft, has higher humidity levels, advanced air filtration and smoother-ride technology to make the flying experience more comfortable and allow passengers to arrive at their destination more refreshed.

This delivery is the first of nine 787 Dreamliners set to join Kenya Airways' fleet. The deliveries of additional 787s, along with 777-300ER (Extended Range) airplanes, forms part of the East African carrier's 10-year strategic plan called "Project Mawingu". The plan is focused on increasing the airline's fleet size from 44 airplanes to 107 by 2021 and destinations from the 62 to 115. Currently the Nairobi-based carrier operates an all-Boeing long-haul fleet of six 767-300ERs, four 777-200ERs and one 777-300ER.

Kenya Airways' first 787 is scheduled to begin flying regionally within Africa in the coming weeks, before beginning long-haul service to Paris in early June.