This archive report was first published on 30 July 2020.
Kenya Airways pilots are facing an uncertain future as the airline's downsizing plans threaten their jobs. The pilots, represented by the Kenya Airline Pilots Association (Kalpa), have written an open letter to President Uhuru Kenyatta, pleading with him to save their jobs and those of their families.
Published on July 30, 2020, the letter highlights the potential impact of the downsizing on over 4,000 families who depend on the airline for their livelihood. The pilots are urging the President to intervene and help the airline reposition itself to fill the gap left by the closure of Air Mauritius and South Africa Airways.
According to the letter, signed by Kalpa General Secretary, Captain Murithi Nyagah, the airline has the opportunity to 'strategically fill the gap' and expand its network, rather than reducing staff. The pilots believe that expanding the airline will give Kenya the opportunity to capitalize on its mature hospitality industry and utilize its investment in airport infrastructure.
However, Kenya Airways top management has termed its decision as 'right-sizing' the organization to operate cost-effectively. The pilots are concerned that the downsizing will result in the country losing its highly-trained home-grown talent to foreign carriers, as well as its regional advantage as a hub.
