Recent data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) reveals a notable 11.1% surge in airlines’ jet fuel purchases within Kenya over the past year. This increase underscores a resurgence in air travel demand as the aviation sector gradually recovers from the profound impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The total volume of jet fuel procured reached 661,100 tonnes, a significant upturn from the preceding year’s 594,520 tonnes. Despite this growth, the current figure remains below the pre-pandemic level of 699,400 tonnes recorded in 2019, indicative of an ongoing recovery process within the industry.
In addition to heightened fuel procurement, the aviation sector has exhibited consistent growth in passenger numbers and cargo volumes over the past three years.
This positive trajectory offers a semblance of relief for airlines, which grappled with substantial financial losses during the pandemic, exacerbated by escalating jet fuel prices.
KNBS data, sourced from the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), indicates a notable 25.6% increase in travelers passing through key airports such as Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and Moi International Airport, with a combined total of 1.5 million passengers in the past year, up from 1.19 million in 2022.
While specific data regarding aircraft movements in 2023 is pending release by the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, the trend of jet fuel consumption suggests a sustained upward trajectory.
Notably, the total number of domestic and international flights, encompassing takeoffs, landings, and overflights, surged to 323,421 in 2022, up from 253,981 the preceding year, marking the third consecutive annual increase since 2020.
The Economic Survey of 2023 attributes this surge in air traffic to the aviation industry’s improved performance amid broader economic recovery efforts and the gradual easing of Covid-19 restrictions.
Kenya’s airspace accommodates a diverse array of international and domestic airlines, with recent additions such as India’s IndiGo and West Africa’s ASKY Airlines commencing operations to and from the country in response to heightened demand.
