Kenya Airways Crowned Africa’s Leading Airline in 2026 World Travel Awards

Kenya Airways has won four awards at the 2026 World Travel Awards in Zanzibar, including Africa’s Leading Airline, as the national carrier strengthens its position in the continent’s competitive aviation market.

The airline beat competitors including Ethiopian Airlines, Royal Air Maroc and South African Airways to secure the top award. The recognition comes after Kenya Airways restored long-haul capacity, including the return of its 400-seat Boeing 777, and expanded its network to 42 destinations worldwide.

Kenya Airways also won Africa’s Leading Airline – Economy Class, an award it has now received six times, most recently in 2023. The award recognises the carrier’s continued focus on service quality and competitive fares.

The Pride Lounge at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi was named Africa’s Leading Airline Lounge. The airline’s inflight publication, Msafiri Magazine, also won Africa’s Leading Inflight Magazine for the fifth consecutive year.

Nairobi received a separate award, being named Africa’s Leading Business Travel Destination for the eighth consecutive year. The recognition reflects the city’s continued role as a major centre for business and international connectivity in Africa.

The World Travel Awards were established in 1993 and recognise achievements across the travel and hospitality industries. Winners are selected through votes from consumers and industry professionals, with industry votes carrying greater weight.

The awards come as Kenya Airways works to strengthen its financial position and improve its operations. The airline is focused on fleet development, greater reliability and new revenue opportunities as it seeks to expand its market share and attract strategic investment.

The latest recognition adds to the carrier’s efforts to strengthen its brand and passenger experience as the global aviation industry continues to face challenges including supply chain disruptions and fluctuating fuel costs.