http://www.eastandard.net/hm_news/news. ... leid=32223
This is an additional report from the Daily Nation
Cheers,Boeing and Kenya Airways have announced planned additions to the airline's fleet with an order for the fourth 777-200ER and the option for a fifth, and to lease a sixth 767-300ER in 2006.
The 777 is scheduled for delivery in 2007.
The airline was the first carrier to use the Boeing 777 in black Africa. It has contributed to the airline's record profitability and ongoing fleet and network expansion.
The airline delivered its first 777-200ER in 2004 with the second and third of the model type entering service earlier this year.
"Flying passengers to the world's wide open spaces on our 777s is a unique experience infused with the natural warmth and hospitality of the Kenyan people," said the airline's chief executive officer, Mr Titus Naikuni.
Kenya Airlines operates has 21 planes, including Boeing 737s, 767s and 777s. It recently announced a lease agreement with Singapore Aircraft Leasing Enterprises for three 737-800s to be delivered in 2006.
"It's rewarding for us to see Kenya Airways become the region's first to take a proven performer like the 777 and reap the benefits of the airplane's superior economics," said Lee Monson, the Boeing sales vice-president for the Middle East and Africa.
The latest 777-200ER will join the other three aircraft by serving existing and new destinations in Europe, the Far East and Africa.
The Boeing 777-200ERs are capable of carrying 30 tonnes of cargo with full passenger loads of 322 people.
The airline serves over two million passengers annually and has the largest network into Africa.
The carrier is going through an aggressive expansion programme and this year's additional destinations include Bamako, Dakar, Maputo, Istanbul and Guangzhou (China).
This complements 17 weekly flights to London and Amsterdam and regular schedules to select destinations in Asia, including Dubai, Mumbai, Hong Kong and Bangkok.
Mr Naikuni exuberated: "We find the 777-200ER's performance and economics perfectly suited to our business model and our passengers appreciate the comfort and amenities of the aircraft coupled with our world-class service."
Walter
