Kenya Airways Marks First Flight By Crew Licensed By European Agency

The crew were part of 71 Kenya Airways personnel who completed rigorous training to obtain the EASA Attestation Certificate

Kenya Airways Marks First Flight By Crew Licensed By European Agency
The KQ crew holding up the EASA Attestation Certificate. /KENYA AIRWAYS

Kenya Airways announced on Friday, September 13 that it successfully operated its first flight fully staffed by an accredited crew under the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). 

In a statement, the national airline revealed that flight KQ554 from Nairobi to Kinshasa marked a significant milestone, with KQ joining a select group of African carriers that have achieved the prestigious certification. 

The crew were part of 71 Kenya Airways personnel who completed rigorous training to obtain the EASA Attestation Certificate, demonstrating their proficiency in managing safety and service functions on European-registered aircraft.

“We are proud to have a significant portion of our cabin crew complete the EASA training program, demonstrating their proficiency in meeting the rigorous requirements of this internationally respected certification,” the Chief Operating Officer, George Kamal, stated.

A Kenya Airways plane taking off. /SIMPLE FLYING

"This accomplishment exemplifies Kenya Airways' leadership in the African aviation industry and our preparedness to match international standards.”

The EASA Certification equips the KQ team to effectively manage safety and service operations on European-registered aircraft during ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) operations.

This reinforces the airline's commitment to providing world-class aviation services, adhering to the highest international safety standards.

“This milestone places our cabin crew in an advantageous position, benchmarked against global standards, and showcases our operational excellence,” notes Pauline Kihara, Head of In-Flight Services and Catering.

“By aligning with one of the best regulatory frameworks in the world, we not only enhance the capabilities of our cabin crew but also strengthen the confidence of our passengers in the safety and quality of our services."  

The addition of EASA certification marks a new chapter in the history of Kenya Airways as the airline continues to strive to meet and exceed global standards.

It also highlights the airline's success in aligning ACMI operations with its regulations and standardizing cabin services.

EASA compliance reaffirms Kenya Airways’ longstanding commitment to passenger safety and solidifies its position as a leading and innovative airline on the global stage. 

The European Aviation Safety Agency is the centrepiece of the European Union's strategy for aviation safety. Its mission is to promote the highest common standards of safety and environmental protection in civil aviation.

The Agency develops common safety and environmental rules at the European level, monitors the implementation of standards through inspections in the Member States and provides the necessary technical expertise, training and research. 

The Agency works hand in hand with the national authorities which continue to carry out many operational tasks, such as certification of individual aircraft or licensing of pilots.

The offices of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in Cologne, Germany. /WIKIPEDIA