As the spread of Coronavirus continues to impact negatively on businesses, Kenya Airways, for the first time, in a period of 40 years, has grounded all passenger flights.
The decision was reached by the management of Kenya Airways after many governments around the world imposed total lockdowns to stop the spread of the deadly Coronavirus.
The virus has hit hard on airlines with analysts saying all airlines combined have lost more than three trillion shillings, the national budget of Kenya in a period of one month.
Shareholders in Kenya Airways are still facing a dark future for there is no way the Pride of Africa is ever going to turn into profitability anytime soon.
“For over 40 years, it has been our pride to connect the world to Africa and Africa to the world. For the first time in history, we have put a pause on our flights. But as we do, we can’t wait to take to the skies with you again. Thank you for your loyalty. Stay safe,” said KQ.
On Thursday, Kenya announced an additional 29 confirmed cases of Coronavirus, taking the total number to 110 with three deaths. It is not known how long the pandemic will last and, therefore, businesses will still face an unknown future.
Kenya Airways has for years been considered as the largest airline in Africa, flying to more destinations around the world. However, things started going South when the airline registered one of the largest losses in the history of Kenya, more than 26 billion shillings.
Plans are underway to nationalize Kenya Airways, meaning taxpayers will take up the burden of cushioning its costs and ensuring the planes remain in the skies no matter the costs.
Employees who work at Kenya Airways have been sent on leave. The majority have taken a pay cut of at least 75 percent with those on contract to go on unpaid leave.
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