Is This The Man Who Will Finally Save Kenya Airways From Crashing?

Kenya Airways has appointed Polish national Sebastian Mikosz as its new chief executive officer.Mikosz, who is taking over from Mbuvi Ngunze, will assume office on June 1. However, the airline said Ngunze would stay on, beyond June, to help conclude ongoing financial restructuring.Mikosz, who previously served as Polish Airlines CEO, has more than 20 years experience in executive management in both public and private sector."He was the CEO of esKy.pl, a leading central European online travel agency and LOT Polish Airlines,"Joseph said."He has been chief executive of LOT Polish Airlines, one of the oldest airlines in the world – a position he held twice including an in-depth turnaround of the company leading to its first positive result in many years."Under Mr Mikosz’s leadership, Lot made its first profit for seven years in 2014. It has since expanded significantly, carrying some 5.5m passengers last year, up from 4m in 2015.Kenya Airways has more than $1bn of debt following a botched expansion plan seven years ago, which was exacerbated by a slump in passenger numbers after terrorist attacks and the 2014 Ebola outbreak.“We have no doubt that under his leadership and guidance the airline, with the support of management and the Board will strive to greater heights and achievements as well as continue to regain its altitude as the ‘Pride of Africa’,” Mr Joseph said.In 2016, Kenya airways made a loss of Sh4.7 billion in half year ended September 30, 2016, a marked improvement from the Sh11.9 billion loss it posted same period last year.