Kenya Airways Board Overhauls Leadership as CEO Allan Kilavuka Exits | News Desk Report
Nairobi, Kenya — Kenya Airways has announced a significant executive leadership change, marking the departure of Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Allan Kilavuka after six years at the helm of the national carrier.
The airline’s Board of Directors confirmed the transition in a statement dated 16 December 2025, underscoring the completion of Kilavuka’s contractual tenure and the need for fresh leadership as the airline navigates its next strategic phase.
Kilavuka, who took over as CEO in April 2020, presided over one of the most challenging periods in the airline’s history, including the turbulence of the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath. Under his leadership, Kenya Airways implemented decisive cost-saving and restructuring initiatives that helped stabilise operations, safeguard the airline’s viability, and support subsequent growth in revenues, passenger traffic, and cargo volumes, according to the official release.
In expressing gratitude for Kilavuka’s service, the Board emphasised his role in steering the carrier through its recovery, thanking him for his diligence, leadership, and contribution to the airline’s progress. The company extended its best wishes for his future endeavours as he proceeds on terminal leave.
To ensure continuity and operational stability, the Board has appointed Captain George Kamal, the airline’s Chief Operating Officer, as Acting Group Managing Director and CEO, effective 16 December 2025.
Kamal brings more than 29 years of leadership experience in the aviation sector across the Middle East and Africa, having served in senior roles including Operations Director at Air Arabia and Chief Operations & Executive Officer at Iraqi Airways.
He holds a Doctorate in Business Administration and a Master of Science in Aviation Management, with extensive expertise in innovation, digital transformation, and advanced aviation systems.
The Board also confirmed that it will launch a competitive recruitment process to appoint a substantive CEO. In the meantime, Kamal is charged with leading the airline’s executive functions and driving ongoing strategic priorities.
The leadership overhaul comes as Kenya Airways continues to pursue its turnaround strategy focused on strengthening operational reliability, growing market share, and enhancing sustainability. The airline has emphasised its commitment to attracting a strategic investor to support long-term growth and competitive positioning within the African aviation market.
Kenya Airways Board Overhauls Leadership as CEO Allan Kilavuka Exits | News Desk Report
