Planes parked on the tarmac of the JKIA. PHOTO | FILE Nation Media Group A looming recession, jitters flying, new Covid-19 flying requirements, and the unpredictability of the coronavirus pandemic are some of the hurdles national carrier Kenya Airways will have to contend with when it gets back to the skies.
The airline, which is currently banking on cargo to earn some revenue, is staring at a tough future, even as its biggest competitor Ethiopian admits that the going is going to be rough post the coronavirus period. Already, South African Airlines has folded, with Corona dealing it the last blow after the Pretoria administration declined to extend it a further bailout.
“The aviation sector is in its biggest crisis ever — suffering even more than most other economic sectors,” Alexandre de Jennica, the chief executive officer of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) said.
LESS CASH
But post-coronavirus, there will be a new flying order. With recession and less cash available for travel, airlines are bracing for fewer booked seats, even as the fear to travel checks on.
On top of this, will be stringent measures for flyers, including possibly having a Covid-19 negative certificate, another costly addition to an expensive ticket, which will see reduction in the number of passengers.
Already, in its repatriation flights, Kenya Airways is demanding the certificate from those who booked seats in its London, Mumbai and Guangzhou flights, an indication this will be the new order.
“All guests are required to arrange for their own Covid-19 tests prior to travel. Guests are required to present a copy of Covid-19 medical results at the check in counter and the results must be negative,” the airline said in a notice for the passengers planning to take these repatriation flights.
Transport Cabinet Secretary James Macharia told Nation that apart from truck driver, others who are required to carry the certificates are travellers arriving into the country from abroad, adding that this could soon be the new norm as the country looks to reopening businesses.
“Upon resumption of our normal services, the safety of our passengers and our crew will still be our utmost priority. The aviation industry will have to adjust to the new normal and we will work closely with the government and comply with all protocols that will be in place to keep our passengers, crew and staff safe,” Kenya Airways managing director Allan Kilavuka told the Nation, alluding […]
