This article summarizes reporting by Air Cargo News.

Kenya Airways Targets Cargo Revenue Doubling with Widebody Expansion and Tech Overhaul

Kenya Airways (KQ) has unveiled an ambitious strategy to double the revenue contribution of its cargo division by the end of 2026. According to reporting by Air Cargo News, the Nairobi-based carrier is implementing a “cargo-first” approach designed to insulate the airline from passenger market volatility while capitalizing on the surging demand for air freight across Africa and Asia.

The airline’s primary objective is to increase cargo’s share of total group revenue from its current 10% to 20%. To achieve this, KQ is executing a two-pronged strategy: a significant fleet expansion involving widebody freighters and a comprehensive digital transformation of its logistics operations.

Fleet Strategy: The Bridge to the Triple Seven

A central component of the expansion plan is the introduction of widebody freighter capacity to complement the airline’s existing narrowbody fleet. Air Cargo News reports that Kenya Airways plans to introduce its first Boeing 767 freighter by the end of the first quarter of 2026, with a second aircraft expected to follow shortly thereafter.

However, the 767 serves as a strategic interim solution rather than the ultimate goal. Fitsum Abadi Gebrehawaria, the Cargo Director at Kenya Airways, indicated that while the 767-300 serves their immediate needs, the long-term vision focuses on larger capacity.

“We may transition with 767-300 but with our strategy between now and 2030, we are planning to have three 777Fs,” Abadi stated in the report.

The decision to utilize the 767 as a “bridge” aircraft highlights a broader industry challenge: the scarcity of available widebody freighters. By securing 767s now, KQ can immediately capture market share on high-volume routes while waiting for the preferred Boeing 777 Freighters to become available. The airline aims to operate three 777Fs by 2030 to handle heavier payloads and longer ranges.

Current Capabilities and Regional Focus

Currently, the airline operates a dedicated freighter fleet consisting of two Boeing 737-300Fs and two Boeing 737-800Fs. The latter were introduced in 2024 to offer extended range and capacity. These narrowbody aircraft will continue to serve critical regional hubs such as Lagos, Dakar, and Johannesburg, supporting the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Digital Transformation and Infrastructure

Beyond hardware, Kenya Airways is investing heavily in software to modernize its cargo operations. According to the source report, the airline is acquiring industry-standard systems focused on three core operational pillars:

• Capacity Planning: Optimizing how cargo space is utilized across the fleet.
• Real-Time Tracking: Enhancing visibility for customers throughout the shipping process.
• Yield Management: Maximizing revenue per unit of cargo.

Furthermore, the airline is integrating with the Air Cargo Community System at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). This integration aims to streamline data exchange between various stakeholders in the supply chain, reducing friction and improving turnaround times.

Group MD and CEO Allan Kilavuka emphasized the importance of these investments, noting that digital solutions are essential for automating processes and improving customer efficiency.

Market Context and Financial Turnaround

The push for cargo expansion comes on the heels of a significant financial turnaround for the airline. In the 2024 fiscal year, Kenya Airways recorded its first profit in 11 years, posting KSh 5.4 billion (approximately $41.8 million). During that period, cargo tonnage grew by 25%, and cargo revenue increased by 20%, validating the decision to prioritize freight.

The new widebody aircraft are specifically intended to target the Asia-Pacific market. The airline plans to capture demand from manufacturing hubs like Guangzhou and Hong Kong. Operations may include technical stops in the Middle East to uplift perishable goods before returning to Africa with e-commerce cargo, effectively balancing trade flows.

AirPro News Analysis

The strategic pivot by Kenya Airways reflects a broader trend among African carriers seeking to hedge against the cyclical nature of passenger travel. By targeting a 20% revenue share from cargo, KQ is attempting to replicate the successful diversification model seen in rival carriers like Ethiopian Airlines.

However, the reliance on a “bridge” fleet of 767s suggests that supply chain constraints in the aerospace sector are dictating strategy as much as market demand is. While the 767 is a capable freighter, the operational complexity of managing a mixed fleet of 737s, 767s, and eventually 777s will require rigorous maintenance and crew training protocols. If executed well, this move could position Jomo Kenyatta International Airport as a formidable rival to Addis Ababa in the battle for the continent’s e-commerce logistics.

Sources

Sources: Air Cargo News

This article is based on an official press release from KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and operational updates from Schiphol Airport.

KLM Cancels Hundreds of Flights as De-Icing Shortage and Winter Storms Paralyze Schiphol

A severe winter storm system combined with a critical supply chain failure has forced KLM Royal Dutch Airlines to cancel approximately 600 flights scheduled for Wednesday, January 7, 2026. The disruption, which began earlier in the week, has left thousands of passengers stranded at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) as the airline struggles to secure enough aircraft de-icing fluid to maintain operations.

According to official updates from the airline, the cancellations are a preemptive measure to prevent further chaos at the airport, where runway capacity is already reduced due to heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. The crisis highlights a significant vulnerability in aviation logistics, as the very weather causing the delays is also preventing the delivery of essential supplies.

The “Perfect Storm”: Weather and Supply Chain Failure

While winter weather is a standard challenge for European aviation, the current situation at Schiphol is being driven by a specific shortage of glycol, the chemical agent used to de-ice aircraft wings and fuselage. In a statement released on January 6, KLM acknowledged that their supplier in Germany was unable to guarantee timely delivery of the fluid due to the widespread impact of the storm system across Northwest Europe.

To maintain even a reduced schedule, KLM reports it is currently consuming approximately 85,000 liters of de-icing fluid daily. With 25 de-icing trucks operating 24/7, the airline is burning through reserves faster than they can be replenished. In an effort to mitigate the shortage, KLM has deployed its own trucks to Germany to collect the fluid directly, though road conditions remain treacherous.

“We are working tirelessly to manage this fluid shortage, but with the persistent snowstorm and strong winds, our resources are stretched. Our supplier in Germany has informed us that they cannot guarantee timely replenishment.”

, KLM Spokesperson

Distinction in Responsibilities

It is important to note the distinction between airport and airline responsibilities during this crisis. Schiphol Airport authorities have clarified that the airport itself has an ample supply of runway de-icing fluid and snow-clearing equipment. The bottleneck is specifically related to aircraft de-icing fluid, which is the operational responsibility of individual airlines, in this case, KLM.

Operational Impact and Passenger Disruption

The scale of the disruption has effectively paralyzed much of the network connected to Amsterdam. Following a difficult weekend where Schiphol was identified as the “world’s most disrupted airport,” the situation deteriorated on Tuesday, January 6, with nearly half of all departures canceled. The cancellation of 600 flights on Wednesday represents a significant portion of KLM’s daily capacity.

Ground Transport Meltdown

Compounding the misery for travelers, the ground infrastructure in the Netherlands has also buckled under the freezing conditions. On January 6, the Dutch rail network (NS) suffered what was described as a “meltdown” due to frozen switches and IT outages, leaving the airport unreachable by train for several hours.

As of January 7, Dutch Railways is operating a reduced “winter timetable.” Travelers attempting to reach Schiphol or leave the airport should expect overcrowding and fewer Intercity and Sprinter services. The Dutch Infrastructure Agency (Rijkswaterstaat) has urged the public to work from home to keep roads clear for emergency services and essential transport.

Stranded Passengers

With rebooking options scarce due to the high volume of cancellations, thousands of passengers have been left stranded. On the night of January 6, camp beds were deployed in the departure halls for travelers unable to secure hotel accommodation. KLM has warned that rebooking may take several days as flights remain fully booked or canceled.

AirPro News Analysis

The Vulnerability of Just-in-Time Logistics

This event serves as a stark case study on the fragility of “Just-in-Time” (JIT) supply chains in the aviation sector. Airlines often minimize on-site storage of chemicals like glycol to reduce costs, relying on steady shipments from suppliers. However, when a weather event is severe enough to require maximum usage of de-icing fluid while simultaneously blocking the road and rail networks needed to deliver that fluid, the system faces a cascading failure.

We anticipate that this operational collapse will force European carriers to re-evaluate their winter contingency planning, potentially leading to requirements for larger on-site strategic reserves of critical operational fluids at major hubs like Schiphol.

Urgent Warning: Scammers Targeting Passengers

Amid the confusion, KLM has issued an urgent warning regarding cybercriminals targeting frustrated passengers on social media. Scammers posing as “KLM Customer Support” are responding to public complaints with fake links, promising compensation or rebooking assistance.

Safety Advisory:

• Do not click on links sent by unverified accounts on X (formerly Twitter) or Facebook.
• KLM will never ask for credit card details or passwords via public social media replies.
• Only interact with verified channels or the official KLM mobile app.

Weather Outlook

The Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI) issued a Code Orange warning for Wednesday morning, predicting heavy snow accumulation of 3–7 cm and wind chills dropping between -5°C and -10°C. While snow crews at Schiphol are working around the clock to keep runways clear, the combination of low visibility and the ongoing fluid shortage suggests disruptions will likely persist through the end of the week.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are flights being canceled if the runways are clear?

While Schiphol Airport keeps runways clear, the planes themselves must be de-iced to fly safely. KLM is currently facing a shortage of the specific fluid needed to de-ice the aircraft, forcing them to ground flights.

Can I take the train to Schiphol?

Yes, but with caution. Dutch Railways (NS) is running a reduced winter timetable. Expect delays, overcrowding, and longer travel times.

What should I do if my flight is canceled?

KLM advises passengers to check their flight status via the official website or app before traveling to the airport. If rebooking is necessary, do so through official channels only to avoid scams.

Sources: KLM Newsroom, Schiphol Airport, KNMI, Dutch Railways (NS).

This article is based on an official press release from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and supplementary data provided in the prompt.

Austin-Bergstrom Finalizes Historic Agreements to Fuel $5 Billion Expansion

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) has officially secured the financial and operational foundation for its next decade of growth. On January 7, 2026, airport officials and major airline partners finalized historic Use and Lease Agreements that will govern operations through September 2035. According to the official announcement, these agreements are critical to enabling the “Journey With AUS” expansion program, a capital improvement effort now valued at over $5 billion.

The finalized contracts involve key signatory partners including Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, FedEx, and UPS. By establishing a new rate-setting methodology, the airport can now issue the necessary bonds to fund massive infrastructure projects without relying on local Austin taxpayer dollars. Instead, funding will be derived from airport cash reserves, future revenue bonds, FAA grants, and airline rates.

A New Balance of Power: Airline Realignment

The agreements outline a significant strategic shift in how carriers will operate at AUS over the next ten years. The allocation of gates and terminal space reveals distinct growth strategies for the airport’s top carriers.

Southwest and Delta Anchor Future Concourses

Southwest Airlines, currently the market leader in Austin, has solidified its position as the anchor tenant for the future Concourse B. Data regarding the agreement indicates Southwest is increasing its commitment to approximately 18 to 20 gates. The new facility is expected to open in the early 2030s.

“If there’s [more] gates that become available, we want them here in Austin, because we know that we can grow in this place.”

, Adam Decaire, SVP at Southwest Airlines

Meanwhile, Delta Air Lines is positioning itself as a formidable challenger by becoming the anchor tenant for the redeveloped Barbara Jordan Terminal (Concourse A). Delta has secured 15 preferential gates and committed $250 million to upgrade its footprint, signaling an aggressive growth strategy aimed at 150 daily flights by 2031.

Consolidation and Relocation

While Southwest and Delta pursue expansion, other carriers are adjusting their footprints. American Airlines will consolidate its operations to nine gates, focusing on connectivity to its major hubs rather than aggressive local market expansion. Additionally, ultra-low-cost carriers such as Allegiant and Frontier are set to move operations from the South Terminal to the Barbara Jordan Terminal in early 2026, ahead of the South Terminal’s planned demolition.

Infrastructure Timeline: The “Journey With AUS”

The finalized agreements unlock the capital required to move forward with several high-profile construction projects. The expansion is designed to alleviate current congestion and prepare the facility for long-term passenger growth.

• West Gate Expansion: Slated for completion in 2026, adding approximately 84,500 square feet and three new gates.
• Concourse M: A pre-engineered facility with six gates (four contact, two walk-out) scheduled for construction in 2026 to serve as a relief valve during other construction phases.
• Arrivals/Departures Hall: A new “front door” for the airport consolidating ticketing and security, expected to complete around 2029.
• Concourse B: The centerpiece 20-30 gate facility connected by an underground tunnel, targeting an opening in the early 2030s.

Austin Mayor Kirk Watson emphasized the significance of the deal in an official statement.

“Today’s a big deal. Austin is a remarkably successful city right now, and part of the proof of that is you have these major airlines that want to be a part of it.”

, Kirk Watson, Mayor of Austin

AirPro News Analysis

The divergence in strategy between the carriers is the most telling aspect of these new agreements. While American Airlines appears to be retrenching to a hub-and-spoke utility role for Austin travelers, Delta and Southwest are effectively locking horns for market dominance. Delta’s $250 million investment in the existing terminal suggests they are unwilling to wait for the new Concourse B to make their move, opting instead to upgrade the passenger experience immediately.

However, the “mid-term” period between 2026 and 2029 presents operational challenges. With the South Terminal closing and low-cost carriers moving into the main terminal before the new Arrivals/Departures Hall is finished, passengers should expect a period of “musical chairs” involving temporary facilities and shifting checkpoints. The success of this transition will depend heavily on the efficiency of the temporary Concourse M relief valve.

Sources

• Austin-Bergstrom International Airport