Astral Aviation celebrates its 25th Anniversary with a Gala Dinner

Astral Aviation is pleased to celebrate its 25th Anniversary with a Gala Dinner which it hosted on the 18th February 2025 at the Four Points Sheraton which various dignitaries, partners, clients and staff attended.

Astral Aviation would like to thank Mr Mbuve Ngunze (Chairman Kenya Association of Air Operators), Mr Emile Arao (Director General of Kenya CAA) and Hon Caleb Kositany (Chairman of the Kenya Airports Authority) for their remarks during the event.

Astral Aviation CEO, Mr Sanjeev Gadhia, in his speech reflected the following

“When Astral Aviation was founded in the Year 2000, it began as a dream—a dream to transform the aviation and logistics industry and to redefine connectivity in cargo transportation within Africa

Over the past 25 years, we have grown from a small African operation to one of the most respected air cargo operators in the world.

This journey has been one of perseverance, determination, resilience and relentless pursuit of excellence.

We have navigated through challenges—economic downturns, Covid-19, geopolitical and aero-political challenges, and unprecedented global events. Yet, through it all, we have not just survived; we have thrived.

Our ability to adapt, innovate, and deliver excellence has set us apart.

As we reflect on our achievements, it is impossible not to acknowledge the many milestones that have defined our growth:

1. Expansion of our Boeing fleet, which has allowed us to enhance our operational efficiency and global reach.
2. Establishing a network that connects key markets across Africa, the Middle East and Asia with our Nairobi Hub.
3. Our ability to deliver medical items and vaccines on priority for our humanitarian clients.
4. Partnerships and collaborations that have strengthened our position as a leader in the aviation industry.
5. Our Human Resources which has enabled us to build and retain one of the finest management, crew and engineering team in the continent.

None of this would have been possible without the people who make Astral Aviation what it is today.

To the Astral Aviation family—this milestone belongs to you. Your dedication, passion, and relentless pursuit of excellence have been the driving force behind our success. You have weathered storms, embraced change, and consistently gone above and beyond to deliver for our customers. For that, I am deeply grateful.

To our customers, GSA and partners, thank you for trusting us with your cargo. Your support has been the foundation of our growth, and we remain committed to serving you with the same level of integrity and reliability that you have come to expect from us. Today we will recognise our partners who have supported during our 25 years journey

To our stakeholders (KCAA / KAA)—your unwavering support has propelled us to greater heights.

And to my family – I couldn’t have done this without your love, prayers and support.

While today is a celebration of our past, it is also a moment to look forward to an even brighter future.

The next chapter of Astral Aviation will be defined by our fleet and network expansion, and a stronger commitment to sustainability.

Our vision for the future is ambitious, but I have no doubt that, together, we will achieve even greater success in the years to come.

In Closing and As we celebrate this 25-year milestone, let us take pride in how far we have come.
But let us also remain inspired by the limitless possibilities ahead.

Thank you all for being part of this incredible journey.