Kenya Airways, GE, Boeing donation to boost aviation training

10 Apr 2017

A high-tech CF6-80A2 aircraft engine, manufactured by General Electric (GE), along with aviation maintenance training books, training aids, reading materials, used aircraft parts and aircraft manuals has been donated by Kenya Airways, GE, and Boeing as a joint initiative to enable capacity building in aviation training schools in the region.

Kenya Airways, GE, Boeing donation to boost aviation training

Speaking during the handover ceremony held at the TUK, Kenya Airways’ strategy and performance management director Thomas Omondi said, “Our donation today further strengthens our commitment to ensuring a stronger foundation of aeronautical knowledge, skills and more experience to aviation technicians and engineers even as they prepare for job market either with us or elsewhere. We are extremely happy to support the next generation of aircraft maintenance engineers”.

Need for skilled aviation professionals

Regional sales director for GE Aviation in Africa Dr. Rajiv Bissessur said, “As Africa’s aviation industry continues to grow, the need for skilled aviation professionals in the region is also on the rise, and GE Aviation is proud to play a role in the skill development efforts underway.”

“The donated CF6 engine will enable aeronautical engineering students to experience hands-on learning with one of the most popular wide-body aircraft engines in service today and increase the pool of talented aviation experts that will be needed to service the needs of the airlines in Africa and around the world,” Rajiv added.

TUK is one of the three universities in sub-Saharan Africa that offers Bachelor of Aeronautical Engineering.