Kenya Airways has entered into a partnership with Safaricom that would see East Africa’s largest teleco help the carrier to install in-flight Wi-Fi on its aircraft.
This collaboration aims to enhance operational efficiency, bolster cybersecurity, and improve customer experience.
In addition to in-flight Wi-Fi, the partnership between East Africa’s largest telecom operator and the airline will extend to areas such as connectivity, infrastructure inspection, security surveillance, loyalty programs, data science, software development, and aviation innovation.
Kenya Airways, through its subsidiary Fahari, is already utilising state-of-the-art drones for agricultural services, highlighting the carrier’s need to leverage technology for diverse applications.
The partnrship will also focus on developing and implementing Internet of Things (IoT) solutions for warehousing, baggage tracking, and aircraft materials management.
This includes tracking, location, reconciliation, and stock-taking, further streamlining the airline’s operations.
Fredrick Kitunga, Kenya Airways’ Chief Information and Data Officer, highlighted the partnership’s potential, noting that by combining expertise, the two companies are addressing current challenges and paving the way for sustainable growth and innovative solutions.
Cynthia Kropac, Safaricom’s Head of Business, emphasised the Memorandum of Understanding’s role in enhancing customer experience and connectivity, ensuring that travelers remain seamlessly connected throughout their journeys.
ligadwah@businessdayafrica.org