Kenya Airways (KQ) has revealed that it has spent at least KSh 8 billion over the last four years to repair aircraft damaged by bird strikes at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
Speaking at the Senate, KQ CEO Allan Kilavuka reported that the frequency of bird strikes has increased recently, leading to significant damage to aircraft, including engine failures, broken windshields, and damage to wings and landing gears.
To mitigate future incidents, Kilavuka announced that KQ is in discussions with the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) about installing bird radar technology. This system would allow pilots to detect birds either during takeoff or landing, enhancing safety and reducing costly repairs.
Kilavuka emphasized that these bird strikes pose a serious threat to aviation safety, and finding a solution is critical for the future operations of Kenya Airways.
