Explained: Why Ruto Is Relying on Chartered Flights for International Travel

Author: kenyans.co.kePublished on: June 4, 2026Country: Kenya

Politics

Explained: Why Ruto Is Relying on Chartered Flights for International Travel

President William Ruto traveled to South Africa aboard a chartered Boeing 737-800 BBJ2 operated by UAE-based Empire Aviation Group. The presidential Fokker 70 has been out of service since August 2025 due to maintenance issues and spare parts scarcity, with retirement planned for 2026. Critics highlight the high cost of chartered flights; a previous US trip reportedly cost Ksh 194 million, though Ruto claimed it was only Ksh 10 million. No new presidential jet has been announced by the government.

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