By KPC Reporter
Kenya Airways has announced a major leadership transition, marking the end of an era for Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Allan Kilavuka, who is exiting the national carrier after six years at the helm.
In a public notice issued on Tuesday, the Board of Directors said Kilavuka has “proceeded on terminal leave ahead of expiry of his contractual tenure,” bringing to a close a period that saw the airline navigate one of the most turbulent chapters in global aviation history.
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Kilavuka took charge at a time when the COVID-19 pandemic had grounded fleets worldwide and pushed airlines into survival mode.
According to the Board, he led the carrier “with commitment, dedication, honour and diligence,” steering Kenya Airways through the crisis and later overseeing a rebound in revenues and freight volumes that reaffirmed the airline’s operational viability.
“The Board and management of the Company hereby express their gratitude to Allan for his diligence, service, leadership, and dedication to the Airline over the years,” the statement read, wishing him well in his future endeavours.
To ensure continuity, the Board has appointed Chief Operating Officer Captain George Kamal as acting Group Managing Director and CEO, effective December 16, 2025, as the airline begins the search for a substantive office holder.
Captain Kamal brings more than 29 years of leadership experience in the aviation industry, spanning African and Middle Eastern markets.
Rising from frontline operations to the C-suite, he has previously held senior roles at Air Arabia and Iraqi Airways.
He holds a Doctorate in Business Administration and an MSc in Aviation Management.
“The Board commits to support Captain Kamal as he takes over the organisation’s executive leadership during this interim period,” the notice said.
Kenya Airways said the leadership change will not alter its turnaround agenda, reaffirming its focus on operational reliability, sustainability and long-term growth, including efforts to secure a strategic investor.
The Board also thanked shareholders, employees and partners for their continued support as the airline charts its next chapter.
