Among the perks offered by the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is in-flight WiFi, which is set to be introduced to KQ passengers for the very first time.
The dream for Kenyan passengers enjoying internet connections during their flights is set to become reality after national airline Kenya Airways on Monday, August 5 signed a strategic partnership with leading telecommunications provider, Safaricom.
The signing took place during an event led by KQ’s Chief Information and Data Officer, Fred Kitunga, and Safaricom’s Chief Enterprise Officer, Cynthia Kropac.
The strategic partnership is aimed at driving innovations to enhance operational efficiency, strengthen cybersecurity, and elevate the customer experience through sustainable and transformative digital solutions.
Among the perks offered by the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is in-flight WiFi, which is set to be introduced to KQ passengers for the very first time.
KQ’s Chief Information and Data Officer, Fred Kitunga, and Safaricom’s Chief Enterprise Officer, Cynthia Kropac during the signing of an MOU on August 5, 2024. /KENYA AIRWAYS
“The partnership will focus on enhancing connectivity across KQ’s pan-African network through fixed connectivity solutions, in-flight Wi-Fi, Cybersecurity, Loyalty program, and Data analytics amongst other areas to support KQ’s operational needs, ensuring reliable and transformative digital solutions that improve on customer experience,” KQ said in a press statement sent to Viral Tea.
The partnership will also collaborate in developing and implementing Internet of Things (IoT) solutions for warehousing, baggage tracking, aircraft materials and cargo, to cover tracking, location, reconciliation and stock taking.
Commenting on the partnership, Fredrick Kitunga, Kenya Airways Chief Information and Data Officer said: “We believe that this collaboration is a testament to our shared objectives underpinned in respective visions, that emphasize customer obsession and creating positive memorable experiences.”
“Our partnership seeks to greatly enhance customer satisfaction and position Kenya Airways as a leader in offering modern, connected travel experiences. One such area that we hope to have in place by 2025 is the implementation of inflight Wi-Fi in our aircraft which will revolutionize the travel experience for our customers and provide them with the ability to stay connected with their loved ones and work while on board.”
Kenya Airways and Safaricom will work together in setting new benchmarks in customer experience, operational efficiency, and technological innovation through combined efforts that will benefit both organisations and contribute to the broader goal of sustainability and connecting Africa for greater prosperity.
Kropac noted, “This Memorandum of Understanding solidifies our commitment to providing a transformative experience for our customers, connecting people in new and innovative ways.”
“By leveraging our respective strengths—Kenya Airways in providing safe journeys and Safaricom in cutting-edge communications and technology—we ensure that our customers remain seamlessly connected throughout their travels,” she remarked.
None of Kenya Airways’ flights as of now have in-flight WiFi, despite the existence of long-haul flights which include the Nairobi-New York route, the longest in KQ’s network. The deal thus aims to meet the demands of Kenyans in regards to access to the internet for various purposes during their flights.
It is yet to be revealed if both KQ and Safaricom will offer the in-flight WiFi option for free (as a complimentary) or if customers will have to pay different rates to use it during their flights.
KQ could join African airlines such as Ethiopian Airlines, which introduced onboard Wi-Fi connectivity using the latest state-of-the-art broadband satellite technology (Ka-band), allowing passengers to enjoy reliable connectivity for sending emails, shopping online, or even chatting on social media while flying over the clouds. On June 20, 2024, the airline was crowned as the winner of the ‘Best Wi-Fi in Africa’ awards at the APEX Passenger Choice Awards 2024.
Globally, Garuda Indonesia is the airline with the world’s best Wi-Fi with a 4.12 rating out of 5, according to Skytrax Airline Customer Reviews 2024.
