Inside Kenya Airways' New 170-Seater Aircraft [PHOTOS]

Kenya Airways (KQ) has expanded its fleet with the addition of a Boeing 737-800 with a capacity of 170 seats, growing its fleet to 35 aircraft.

The aircraft was welcomed with a water salute at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi, with fortunate passengers getting a feel of the aircraft as it departed for Mombasa on Wednesday, February 19, following an opening ceremony attended by the airline's top leadership and some from the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA).

“Today, we welcome a Boeing 737-800, adding more capacity and flexibility to our network. This expansion is part of our continued commitment to providing you with seamless travel experiences across Africa and beyond,” said KQ on its social media handles.

This addition is part of KQ's ongoing fleet expansion strategy, which underscores the airline's commitment to increasing capacity, enhancing operational efficiency, and meeting the growing demand for air travel across its network.

According to the airline in a press release sent to newsrooms, the acquisition of the aircraft from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) will immediately boost KQ's available seat inventory, thus offering guests more travel options and flexibility.  

Kenya Airways CEO Allan Kilavuka (right) flags off the airline's new Boeing 737-800 on February 19, 2025. /MARVIN CHEGE.VIRAL TEA KE

Allan Kilavuka, Kenya Airways Group Managing Director & CEO, said that adding the aircraft is a testament to KQ's proactive approach to securing resources that align with its long-term growth objectives and its commitment to its turnaround strategy, Project Kifaru 2. 

"The addition of this B737-800 marks a pivotal moment in our fleet expansion journey. It will increase our seat capacity and is a demonstration of our ability to adapt and grow in a challenging operating environment, even as the global aviation industry faces challenges in aircraft availability," he remarked.

"These efforts are part of Kenya Airways' broader strategy to enhance its network, improve connectivity, and deliver exceptional service to its guests."

Viral Tea has learnt that this aircraft is the Boeing 737-800 Next Generation (NG) which is a narrow-body, short to medium-haul commercial aircraft developed by Boeing, an American multinational corporation that designs, manufactures, and sells aeroplanes, rotorcraft, rockets, satellites, and missiles worldwide.

Boeing 737-800 NG Features

This particular aircraft belongs to the Boeing 737 Next Generation (737NG) family, which includes several variants known for their improved efficiency, enhanced performance, and updated technology. The family includes variants such as the 737-600, 737-700, and 737-900 models.

The 737-800 was developed as a stretched successor to the 737-400 and has become one of the most widely used commercial aircraft in the world. Compared to the 737 Classic, it has a redesigned wing with a larger area, a wider wingspan, greater fuel capacity, higher maximum takeoff weights (MTOW) and longer range.

The wing design is improved over older 737 models, featuring blended winglets (optional but common). Among the benefits the winglet has include reduced drag, improved fuel efficiency (4 to 7 percent) and a wingspan of 35.8 meters with winglets.

Engine & Avionics

Its CFM56-7B engines from CFM International provide between 20,000 to 27,300 pounds (9,071.8 to 12,383 kg) of thrust. Further, its fuel efficiency improvements reduce operational costs compared to older models, making it a favourite for airlines including KQ.

The 737-800 is also capable of ETOPS (Extended Twin-Engine Operations), allowing it to fly transoceanic routes with regulatory approval. For pilots, the cockpit is equipped with Honeywell avionics and a glass cockpit featuring six large LCD screens.

Boeing's Common Display System (CDS) allows pilots to transition easily between different 737 NG models while Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS) and Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) improve safety. Fly-by-wire spoilers enhance control.

Cabin

The 737-800 seats 162 passengers in a two-class layout or 189 passengers in a one-class layout. The 737-800 was launched on September 5, 1994, with Hapag-Lloyd Flug (now TUI fly Deutschland) receiving the first one in April 1998. According to KQ's website:

The additional aircraft comes at a critical time when Kenya Airways is actively pursuing opportunities to expand its fleet through strategic partnerships with leading aircraft manufacturers and lessors. The airline is engaged in advanced discussions to secure additional aircraft, focusing on narrow and wide-body models offering increased seat capacity and operational efficiency. 

"We are committed to building a robust and modern fleet that supports our vision for growth," added Kilavuka.

"The acquisition of the B737-800 aircraft from DAE is a great milestone in our long-term partnership and solidifies our relationship as we work together in the future. It is also a clear signal to the aviation industry that Kenya Airways is a reliable and forward-thinking partner. We invite other partners to join us on this journey as we expand our operations and strengthen our position in the global aviation market." 

KQ's proactive approach to fleet expansion and its ability to secure timely resources highlight the airline's resilience and commitment to growth. The airline remains confident in attracting partnerships with global aviation lessors, leveraging its strong market position and reputation as a leading African carrier.

 A crew member poses next to Kenya Airways' new Boeing 737-800. /KENYA AIRWAYS