Kenya Airways, the flag carrier of Kenya, operates a fleet of 9 Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners, which are known for their fuel efficiency, advanced technology, and passenger comfort. As of 2024, these aircraft serve as the backbone of the airline’s long-haul operations, connecting Nairobi with key destinations around the world.
Let’s take a look at the seat map of Kenya Airways’ Boeing 787-8, as well as the aircraft’s capacity, routes, class configuration, and the best seats on board.
Capacity of Kenya Airways Boeing 787-8
The Kenya Airways Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner is designed to accommodate a total of 234 passengers. This capacity is divided into two main cabin classes: Business Class (Premier World) and Economy Class. The seating configuration and layout are designed to maximize both passenger comfort and operational efficiency, ensuring that travellers enjoy a pleasant flight experience.
Business Class (Premier World): 30 seats – Seat Pitch 75 inches
Economy Class: 204 seats – Seat Pitch 32 inches
The 787-8’s configuration allows Kenya Airways to offer a premium experience in Business Class (Premier World) while still maintaining a substantial Economy Class section, making it suitable for a range of routes, from regional to intercontinental flights.
Class Configuration and Cabin Layout
The Kenya Airways Boeing 787-8 features a dual-class configuration, with Business Class located at the front of the aircraft and Economy Class occupying the remainder of the cabin. The layout is designed to provide a comfortable experience for all passengers, with distinct features for each class.
Business Class (Premier World):
The Business Class cabin is arranged in a 2-2-2 configuration across five rows. This setup offers direct aisle access for passengers in window seats, though those seated by the window will need to step over their neighbor to reach the aisle.
Sure, there is nothing to compare to the cabin of Qatar Airways who feature mini pod suites on board their 787, but the seats are fully flat beds, making them ideal for long-haul flights. They come equipped with personal entertainment screens, ample storage, and power outlets.
Economy Class:
Economy Class is configured in a 3-3-3 arrangement. The seats offer standard legroom, personal entertainment screens, and USB charging ports. While the 3-3-3 layout is typical for a Dreamliner, it may feel slightly tight for passengers during long flights, especially for those seated in the middle of the row.
Best Business Class Seat on Kenya Airways 787-8
When selecting the best seat in Business Class, comfort, privacy, and convenience are key factors. On Kenya Airways’ 787-8, the seats in Row 1 are often considered the best choice for several reasons:
- Row 1: These seats are located at the very front of the aircraft. They provide extra privacy and a quieter environment away from the galley and lavatories. The proximity to the bulkhead also gives these seats more legroom, making them ideal for taller passengers. Additionally, being at the front means you will be among the first to disembark upon arrival. This is a bonus for those in a hurry.
If Row 1 is unavailable, other good options include the window seats in Rows 2 and 3. These offer a balance of privacy and accessibility.
Preferred Seats in Economy Class
When you select Preferred Seats, you’re opting for a journey that extends beyond the flight itself. Positioned closer to the front of the cabin, these seats ensure you’re among the first to disembark. Skip the long lines and enjoy a smooth transition from your flight to your next adventure.
In Economy Class, seat selection can make a significant difference in comfort, especially on long flights. Here are some of the preferred seats in Kenya Airways’ 787-8 Economy Class:
- Exit Row Seats (Rows 16 and 28): These seats offer additional legroom. They are popular choice for taller passengers or those seeking extra space. However, these seats may have fixed armrests, which can slightly reduce the width of the seat.
- Bulkhead Seats (Row 11): These seats at the front of the Economy cabin also provide extra legroom. They are ideal for families traveling with infants, as bassinets can be attached to the bulkhead. However, being close to the galley and lavatories may result in more noise and foot traffic.
- Window Seats in Rows 18-23: These seats are positioned over the wing. This generally provides a smoother ride with less turbulence. They are also farther away from the lavatories, reducing disturbances during the flight.
Typical Routes for Kenya Airways Boeing 787-8
Kenya Airways primarily deploys its Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners on long-haul international routes. These routes connect Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) with major cities across Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Some of the key destinations served by the 787-8 include:
- London Heathrow (LHR) – A vital route linking East Africa with the United Kingdom.
- Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) – Connecting Nairobi with one of Europe’s busiest hubs.
- Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) – Serving travelers between Kenya and France.
- Bangkok Suvarnabhumi (BKK) – A gateway to Southeast Asia.
- New York John F. Kennedy (JFK) – A direct connection between Kenya and the United States.
These routes highlight the versatility of the Boeing 787-8, enabling Kenya Airways to offer direct flights to some of the most important business and leisure destinations globally
Additional Considerations
When choosing seats on Kenya Airways’ Boeing 787-8, passengers should also consider personal preferences such as proximity to lavatories, galleys, and exits. For instance, while seats near the exits and bulkheads offer more legroom, they may also be noisier due to their location. Similarly, seats near the galley may experience more foot traffic but can be convenient for quick access to the lavatory or for receiving prompt service. This is especially important for passengers who have a little anxiety when travelling and need to be within reach of lavatories or cabin crew.
Dimmable Windows
It’s also worth noting that Kenya Airways’ Dreamliners are equipped with large, electronically dimmable windows, allowing for better control of light during the flight. Passengers seated by the windows can enjoy spectacular views, especially during take-off and landing. This is great for people who are travelling with kids and want to keep them fascinated throughout the journey.
Summary
Kenya Airways’ Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner is a modern and efficient aircraft designed to offer a comfortable flying experience across long-haul routes. With a capacity of 234 passengers, the aircraft features a well-thought-out dual-class configuration, catering to both Business and Economy Class travellers. By understanding the seat map and knowing which seats are the best, passengers can enhance their travel experience, whether they prioritize extra legroom, privacy, or convenience. Sure, it’s not a 4 class Emirates A380 that has set such a high bar, but for what it is, Kenya Airways on board their 787-8 is a pleasant experience.
