Kenya Airways has ramped up frequencies to Mumbai days after IndiGo, India’s largest airline by both fleet and passenger numbers launched direct flights between the Asian Country and Nairobi.
KQ has announced two daily flights to Mumbai as the carrier seeks to expand its customer base in the wake of stiff competition from India’s low-cost carrier which has commenced flights from the same city to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
India is one of the key routes for Kenya Airways where the carrier operates a significant number of flights and the new entrant is likely to eat into its market share.
“Fly from Nairobi to Mumbai two times daily or connect to the rest of India with our airline partners,” says the national carrier.
IndiGo’s inaugural flight with 173 passengers on board arrived at the Jomo Kenya International Airport on August 5, in a move that is set to shake up the aviation landscape.
The launch of the route marks IndiGo’s Air’s entry into the African Continent with Nairobi serving as the 27th international and 105th overall destination.
Speaking during the flight reception, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism Peninah Malonza welcomed the new flight adding that it would significantly bolster tourism and economic growth through increased travel and business opportunities between the two countries.
“The government of Kenya appreciates IndiGo Air for putting Kenya in its network of destinations. The launch of this direct flight between Mumbai and Nairobi marks a pivotal milestone in the long-standing friendship between our two great nations.
This strategic air link will foster increased business collaboration, cultural exchange, and tourism opportunities, serving as a bridge to bring our countries even closer together” she said
Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen emphasised the government’s commitment to improving air travel and infrastructure across Kenya.
“As part of our aviation development policy, we aim to create a more accessible and efficient air travel network within Kenya and beyond. IndiGo Air’s direct flights between Mumbai and Nairobi align perfectly with this vision, enabling seamless connectivity and enhancing the overall travel experience for our citizens and visitors alike,” said Mr Murkomen.
Mr Murkomen said the flight opens up a new gateway into Africa for Indian travellers noting that the two countries enjoy strong bilateral ties and the connection would expand Kenya’s markets for Tourism and Trade.
“Kenya continues to build strong strategic relations with many of our partners including India. With India being a key source market for tourism and trade this direct flight marks a significant milestone in intensifying our partnership,” he said.