China Trip: Ruto Flies With Kenya Airways Again, Raila Goes With Him [PHOTOS]

President William Ruto has increased his use of national airline Kenya Airways for his international trips, more than three months after he stirred conversation across different quarters following his explanation on deciding to hire a luxurious private jet to the United States (US) for his visit as compared to flying commercially with KQ.

The national airline became his preferred pick for his latest international journey, this time to Beijing, China to attend the 9th Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit.

On May 26, Ruto argued that the decision to charter the aforementioned private jet presented the cheapest option compared to using commercial means, saying on his X account that “As a responsible steward of public resources and in keeping with my determination for us to live within our means and that I should lead from the front in so doing, the cost was less than travelling on KQ.”

Since those remarks that drew sharp criticism nationwide over his shunning of the national carrier in preference of chartered aircraft boasting luxurious features to make even the world’s best airlines jealous, Ruto has turned to Kenya Airways on two occasions, including on Monday, September 2.

President William Ruto jets into Beijing, China on September 2, 2024. /PCS

The first time, he returned to Kenya aboard a KQ flight on June 17 from Switzerland. Beforehand, he travelled to Italy and later Switzerland using what was reported to be private means before returning to Kenya. 

A spicy addition to the Beijing trip was Azimio la Umoja leader, Raila Odinga, who accompanied him to China in a rare display of unity after the two have been at loggerheads since the 2022 general elections. Raila is part of a high-profile delegation of African leaders attending the summit.

“Arrived in Beijing for the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Summit. The meeting presents an opportunity for Africa to renew and strengthen its partnership with China.

“Over the years, China has proven to be a true development partner, significantly revamping our infrastructure. We look forward to leveraging these ties to accelerate our transformation,” stated Ruto on his social media handles.

With First Lady Rachel Ruto also accompanying the duo, Ruto and Raila’s fashion statement was also noticeable, with the Head of State donning a Tommy Hilfiger sweatshirt, jeans, and white sneakers, perhaps to adjust to the comfort of a flight of more than 14 hours.

Raila, following closely behind, maintained his classic look in a navy blue Kaunda suit and a cowboy hat.

The KQ aircraft the delegation used is a Boeing 787 Dreamliner. This is one of nine aircraft in KQ’s fleet and despite its smaller size compared to the Boeing 777s operated by other airlines, it is used for long-haul to ultra-long-haul trips from Kenya to various countries including the US.

Among the features aboard the aircraft are lower cabin altitude and higher humidity levels compared to older aircraft, which can help reduce passenger fatigue and discomfort during long flights. 

Also included are quieter engines resulting in a more peaceful cabin environment with reduced noise levels. The engines are courtesy of GEnx (General Electric) which provide a base thrust of 70,000 pounds (lbs).

“Kenya Airways is dedicated to ensuring a superior travel experience for its passengers, and this commitment extends to the seating and comfort options available on its Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft. By carefully considering ergonomic seating and innovative cabin design, Kenya Airways aims to enhance passenger well-being during both short and long-haul flights,” KQ explains on its website.

The aircraft has 30 seats in KQ’s Premier World Business class section and 204 in Economy class. Viral Tea was unable to independently establish which seating arrangement the Ruto delegation picked for the trip to Beijing.

President William Ruto jets into Beijing, China on September 2, 2024. /PCS