Kenya Airways has signed a ground handling partnership agreement with FedEx, under which the airline will support the American cargo carrier’s operations in Nairobi.

GROUND HANDLING OPERATIONS AT JKIA

The agreement will see Kenya Airways provide cargo handling services for FedEx at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), further strengthening Nairobi’s position as a regional cargo and logistics hub.

According to the airline, this marks the first time FedEx has selected Kenya Airways as a ground handling partner.

Kenya Airways said the partnership reflects confidence in its operational capabilities, handling infrastructure and strategic regional network position.

CARGO DEMAND CONTINUES TO GROW

The agreement comes amid continued growth in global air cargo demand, driven by e-commerce, pharmaceutical logistics, perishables exports and time-sensitive supply chains.

Kenya Airways Acting Group Chief Executive Officer Captain George Kamal said the partnership reinforces Nairobi’s role as a key logistics gateway connecting Africa with Europe, Asia, the Middle East and North America.

Industry analysts cited in the release noted that ground handling partnerships are becoming increasingly important in supporting cargo turnaround efficiency, operational reliability and supply chain performance.

SUPPORTING EAST AFRICAN CARGO GROWTH

The partnership is also expected to support Kenya’s broader ambitions to position JKIA as East Africa’s leading cargo consolidation and distribution hub, particularly as trade activity expands under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Kenya remains one of Africa’s major exporters of flowers, fresh produce, pharmaceuticals and other high-value perishables reliant on efficient air freight connectivity.

Kenya Airways operates its cargo handling activities through Kenya Airfreight Handling Limited (KAHL), which manages imports, exports, transit cargo and specialised shipments at JKIA.