Better Jobs: Why New Kenya Airways Global Deal Matters To Kenyans

Kenya Airways on Thursday, May 15, entered into a strategic partnership with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to pilot the new Integrated Sustainability Program (ISP)—a bold initiative that aims to overhaul how the global aviation industry addresses sustainability.

The national carrier made this announcement while hosting the 37th IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) in Nairobi from May 13 to 15, 2025, further spotlighting Kenya as a hub for global aviation dialogue.

As part of the pilot, Kenya Airways is one of the first airlines worldwide to test and refine the ISP, which introduces new standards in three core areas. The first is sustainable procurement, which focuses on responsible sourcing with environmental and social accountability.

The second is on social responsibility that entails strengthening labour rights, community engagement, and inclusive workforce development. The third is on Sustainability Performance Monitoring, which leverages data to track, improve, and benchmark sustainability outcomes.

Kenya Airways CEO Allan Kilavuka in a high-level panel discussion during the opening day of the IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi on May 13, 2025. /KENYA AIRWAYS

Why This Matters

The new partnership puts Kenya on the global aviation map. By hosting a major IATA conference and piloting a global program, Kenya is showing the world that it is not just participating in the aviation industry but also shaping its future. This puts Nairobi at the centre of innovation and sustainability in Africa and globally.

Furthermore, this is poised to boost Kenya Airways' national airline reputation, having faced challenges in recent years, from debt to operational disruptions.

Taking a lead in sustainability could rebuild trust, attract eco-conscious travellers, and improve partnerships with international carriers, all of which are good for the airline’s bottom line.

In addition, the partnership could have huge benefits for the country's economy and local jobs. Sustainable procurement and better labour practices mean better working conditions and growth opportunities for Kenyans working in and around aviation. This move could also attract more green investment into Kenya’s transport and logistics sectors.

Further, the partnership will align with Kenya's Green Agenda, with the country already a global leader in renewable energy. Integrating sustainability in aviation aligns with national goals around climate change, clean business practices, and responsible corporate behaviour.

If Kenya Airways succeeds, it sets a precedent for other African airlines—and even other sectors—to take sustainability more seriously. That ripple effect matters for future industries, jobs, and environmental outcomes across the continent.

Over the past week, KQ worked closely with IATA experts to tailor these standards to real-world airline operations. The airline is now advancing toward full ISP certification, marking a serious commitment to long-term environmental and social transformation in aviation.

Speaking on this notable milestone, Kenya Airways Group MD & CEO, Allan Kilavuka, stated, “By partnering with IATA to pilot the Integrated Sustainability Program ISP, we are taking deliberate steps to strengthen our operational resilience while contributing to broader industry transformation.

"This collaboration offers a valuable opportunity to test what works, learn, and refine our approach. We are optimistic that this will pave the way for scalable, real-world solutions that support our social, environmental and economic goals," he added.

IATA’s Senior Vice President, Sustainability and Chief Economist, Marie Owens Thomsen, also noted Kenya Airways' demonstration of remarkable leadership in piloting the IATA Integrated Sustainability Program, setting a shining example for the aviation industry in Africa. 

Their dedication to integrating robust sustainability practices, encompassing both environmental and social responsibilities, is truly commendable and paves the way for a more sustainable future for African aviation."

The Integrated Sustainability Program provides a practical, actionable framework for airlines, airports, and ground service providers to enhance their sustainability maturity. It enables organisations to identify risks,  seize improvement opportunities, and benchmark progress across global best practices. 

The formal launch of the ISP is scheduled to take place at the IATA World Sustainability Symposium (WSS)  in October 2025 in Hong Kong, where the full program will be unveiled to the global aviation community.