This archive report was first published on 3 November 2019.
Kenya's air safety record has come under intense scrutiny following a series of incidents involving aircraft. A report tabled before parliament in 2019 revealed a disturbing trend: an average of one aircraft accident per month over the past 22 months.
The National Assembly Transport committee, chaired by David Pkosing, summoned Transport ministry leaders, the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), and the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) to a meeting in response to the increased incidents. However, the Transport principal secretary and KCAA director general, along with officials, failed to attend the session, sparking allegations of government interference.
According to Mr. Pkosing, powerful elements within the government were behind the KCAA director-general's absence, suggesting an inside story that is not being told. The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) had previously rated Kenya's air safety record as 'commendable' with a 78% score in 2017, but questions have been raised about the accuracy of these numbers.
Insiders claim that the industry continues to prioritize profits over safety, with regulators, airline operators, and the KAA turning a blind eye to issues that could make all the difference between a safe flight and an accident.
Undeterred, the Transport committee has rescheduled the session for November 12, vowing to continue its investigation into the country's air safety record.
