Kenya Airways Plc (KQ) has announced a significant executive leadership transition, marking the end of Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Allan Kilavuka’s six-year tenure at the national carrier.
In a statement dated 16 December 2025, the airline’s Board of Directors confirmed that Mr. Kilavuka will be exiting the company as he proceeds on terminal leave ahead of the expiry of his contractual term.
Kilavuka’s Six-Year Kenya Airways Tenure Comes to an End
Mr. Kilavuka leaves Kenya Airways after steering the airline through one of the most challenging periods in its history, including the turbulence caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
During this time, he implemented decisive cost-containment measures and strategic initiatives that helped safeguard the airline’s operational viability.
“The Board and management of Kenya Airways express their sincere gratitude to Mr. Kilavuka for his diligence, service, and leadership, and wish him every success in his future endeavours,” the statement read.
Captain George Kamal Named Acting GMD/CEO of Kenya Airways
To ensure continuity, the Board has appointed the airline’s Chief Operating Officer, Captain George Kamal, as Acting Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, effective December 16, 2025.
At the same time, the Board confirmed it will commence a competitive recruitment process to identify and appoint a substantive CEO.
Captain Kamal brings more than 29 years of leadership experience across the Middle East and African aviation markets.
His career spans frontline operations to senior executive roles, where he has led transformation efforts at multiple airlines.
Prior to joining Kenya Airways, he served as Operations Director at Air Arabia and later as Chief Operations and Executive Officer at Iraqi Airways.
Kamal holds a Doctorate in Business Administration and a Master of Science degree in Aviation Management, with strong expertise in innovation, digitalisation, and advanced aviation systems.
The Board pledged its full support to the Captain as he leads the airline during the interim period.
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