Kenya Airways Targets Over 50 Aircraft by 2035 in Major Expansion Plan

Kenya Airways has unveiled plans to more than double its aircraft fleet to over 50 planes by 2035 as the national carrier pushes an aggressive expansion strategy.

Acting KQ CEO George Kamal has announced that KQ, which turns 50 next year, plans to raise its fleet to over 50 planes over the next four years and nearly triple its current fleet by 2035.

Speaking at the Aviation Media Lab on Friday, May 29, in Mombasa, Kamal said the expansion plan is part of the national carrier’s growth strategy. 

“So we are looking at over 50 aircraft by 2035. But for this we require an investor to be in place,” Kamal said.

Adding, “In the first stage we are looking at about 59 to 60 aircraft, and that’s as a group, not just Kenya Airways.”

According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), passenger numbers in Africa are expected to nearly double by 2035, requiring corresponding investments in fleet size and route networks.

Kamal said KQ is eyeing a mix of long-range and medium- and short-haul planes, but the expansion is contingent on the airline securing an agreement with a pool of strategic investors.

Under the strategy, the airline will mix buying planes, leasing, and leasing-to-buy. At the moment, Kenya Airways operates 34 aircraft, with 4 dedicated for cargo.

Speaking during the same forum on Thursday, KQ Board Chairman Kiprono Kittony revealed its search for investors is still ongoing. 

In March, the national carrier revealed it is seeking between $1.2 and $2 billion (about Ksh154.8 billion to Ksh258 billion) to stabilise the airline’s finances and recapitalise its balance sheet.

Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has indicated that the search involves floating an international expression of interest (EOI).  

To make the airline more attractive, the government is considering converting its own loans to the airline, specifically the Ksh63.1 billion under the Tsavo facility, into equity once a partner is onboarded. 

This is intended to ‘clean up’ the balance sheet before the new investor enters. 

With a fleet of over 50 aircraft, Kenya Airways would significantly strengthen its position among Africa’s leading carriers, although it would still trail one of its biggest competitors, which aims to expand its fleet to 271 aircraft by 2035

Source: https: kenyans.co.ke

World’s Largest Cruise Ship Signals New Opportunities for Kenya’s Growing Cruise Travel Market

The global cruise industry has reached another milestone with the launch of Legend of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s newest Icon Class vessel and the largest cruise ship ever built. More than just another cruise liner, the ship represents the growing evolution of modern travel, where the journey itself has become as much of an attraction as the destinations visited.

For Kenya’s travel industry, the launch is also a reminder of the expanding opportunities within the global cruise market. As more Kenyan travellers embrace cruise holidays and the Port of Mombasa strengthens its position as an emerging cruise destination, the sector continues to present exciting prospects for travel agents and tourism businesses alike.

A Floating City at Sea

Legend of the Seas has been designed on an unprecedented scale. The vessel features 18 guest decks, 2,805 staterooms, accommodation for up to 7,600 guests, and a crew of approximately 2,350, making it the largest cruise ship currently in operation.

The ship offers an impressive collection of attractions, including seven swimming pools, 28 restaurants, 20 bars, world-class entertainment venues and adventure experiences designed for travellers of all ages. From waterparks and surf simulators to Broadway-style theatre productions, wellness facilities and tranquil green spaces, Legend of the Seas has been designed to offer a complete holiday experience at sea.
Rather than serving simply as transportation between ports, the vessel reflects a growing trend where cruise ships are destinations in their own right, delivering entertainment, dining and leisure experiences that rival leading land-based resorts.

Mediterranean Adventures Await

Legend of the Seas will begin operations in Europe, sailing from Barcelona, Spain, and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, with itineraries visiting destinations across Spain, France and Italy. The deployment marks the first time an Icon Class ship will sail European waters, providing travellers with new opportunities to experience some of the Mediterranean’s most iconic destinations aboard Royal Caribbean’s flagship vessel.

The ship’s arrival reflects continued confidence in the cruise sector, with operators investing in larger, more technologically advanced vessels to meet growing global demand for premium holiday experiences.

Why the Launch Matters to Kenya

Although Legend of the Seas will operate thousands of kilometres from East Africa, its launch has direct relevance for Kenya’s outbound travel market.

Cruise holidays are becoming increasingly popular among Kenyan travellers seeking convenient, all-inclusive vacations that combine multiple destinations with accommodation, dining, entertainment and leisure activities in one seamless experience. Families, honeymooners, retirees and luxury travellers are increasingly considering cruises as an alternative to traditional holidays.

For travel agents, this growing demand creates new business opportunities through cruise bookings, international air travel, hotel stays, travel insurance, visa services and customised pre- and post-cruise packages.

KATA Continues to Champion Cruise Travel

The Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) continues to play an important role in promoting cruise travel by bringing together accredited travel professionals who provide trusted advice and access to internationally recognised cruise products.

Through its network of members, KATA supports professionalism within the travel trade while helping Kenyan travellers book cruise holidays through reputable agencies with expertise in international cruise itineraries.

Among KATA’s Corporate Members are Norwegian Cruise Line and Whitestar Cruise & Travel, organisations that continue to strengthen Kenya’s connection to the global cruise industry. Their participation within the Association enhances the range of cruise products available to the Kenyan market while reinforcing KATA’s commitment to supporting travel businesses across every segment of the industry.

Kenya’s Cruise Industry Is Also Growing

The excitement surrounding Legend of the Seas comes at a time when Kenya is making steady progress as a cruise destination.

The Port of Mombasa has continued to attract international cruise vessels, welcoming the inaugural visit of Azamara Journey, which arrived with approximately 690 passengers, alongside the turnaround call of Crystal Symphony, which saw around 500 passengers embark and disembark through the port. These milestones reflect growing international confidence in Kenya’s cruise tourism potential and reinforce Mombasa’s position as an emerging gateway for cruise travel along the East African coastline.

Continued investment in port infrastructure, destination experiences and tourism partnerships are expected to further strengthen Kenya’s appeal to international cruise operators in the years ahead.

The Future of Cruise Tourism

The arrival of Legend of the Seas is more than a record-breaking achievement for Royal Caribbean. It demonstrates the continued evolution of cruise tourism into one of the fastest-growing segments of the global travel industry.

For Kenya’s travel sector, this growth presents significant opportunities. As outbound demand increases and international cruise operators expand their offerings, travel agents will play an increasingly important role in connecting Kenyan travellers with unforgettable cruise experiences around the world.

Combined with Kenya’s own growing presence on international cruise itineraries and the support of industry organisations such as KATA, the future of cruise tourism looks increasingly promising—both for travellers seeking their next adventure and for the businesses helping make those journeys possible.

Kenya Travel Industry Events You Can’t Afford to Miss in the Remainder of 2026

The second half of 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting period for Kenya’s travel and tourism industry. From business forums and aviation conferences to global trade exhibitions and industry awards, the months ahead present valuable opportunities for travel professionals to build partnerships, explore new markets, discover emerging trends, and strengthen their competitive edge.

Whether you are a travel agent, tour operator, airline executive, hotelier, tourism board representative or destination marketer, attending industry events remains one of the most effective ways to expand your network, generate new business and stay informed about the rapidly evolving travel landscape.

Here are five travel industry events that deserve a place on your calendar.

KATA Travel Business & Innovation Forum 2026

13 August 2026 | Pan Pacific Serviced Suites Nairobi – GTC

The first major event on the calendar is the KATA Travel Business & Innovation Forum 2026, organised by the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA).

Held under the theme “Connecting Travel, Business & Innovation,” the forum will bring together travel agents, airlines, tourism boards, technology providers and other industry stakeholders to discuss the future of travel. Delegates can expect insightful discussions on innovation, digital transformation, changing consumer behaviour and business growth, alongside excellent networking opportunities with industry decision-makers.

For businesses seeking fresh ideas and strategic partnerships, the forum promises to be an important platform for collaboration.

AviaDev Africa

9–10 September 2026 | Sarit Expo Centre, Nairobi

September will see Nairobi host one of Africa’s leading aviation conferences—AviaDev Africa.

The conference is recognised as the continent’s premier event dedicated to airline route development and aviation connectivity. It attracts airlines, airports, tourism authorities, civil aviation regulators and aviation service providers from across Africa and beyond.

With improved air connectivity remaining central to tourism growth, AviaDev offers valuable opportunities for airlines and tourism stakeholders to develop new routes, strengthen partnerships and explore investment opportunities that support the continent’s aviation sector.

Magical Kenya Travel Expo (MKTE)

6–8 October 2026 | Uhuru Gardens National Monument and Museum, Nairobi

Every year, the Magical Kenya Travel Expo (MKTE) serves as Kenya’s flagship international tourism trade exhibition, and the 2026 edition is expected to attract hundreds of exhibitors, international hosted buyers and media representatives.

Organised by the Kenya Tourism Board, the expo provides local tourism businesses with a platform to showcase Kenya’s diverse tourism experiences while connecting directly with international travel buyers seeking new destinations and products.

For many exhibitors, MKTE generates long-term business partnerships that extend well beyond the exhibition floor, making it one of the country’s most commercially significant tourism events.

World Travel Market (WTM) London

3–5 November 2026 | ExCeL London

For Kenyan tourism businesses looking to strengthen their international presence, World Travel Market London remains one of the world’s most influential travel trade exhibitions.

The event attracts thousands of exhibitors and buyers from across the global travel industry, creating opportunities for destinations, airlines, hotels, tour operators and travel technology companies to negotiate business, launch new products and gain valuable market insights.

Participation also enables Kenyan tourism stakeholders to showcase the country’s diverse tourism offerings to international buyers while strengthening relationships within key source markets.

Kenya Travel Industry Business Awards (KETIBA)

27 November 2026 | Kenya

The industry’s calendar concludes with the Kenya Travel Industry Business Awards (KETIBA), organised by the Kenya Association of Travel Agents.

The awards celebrate excellence, innovation and outstanding achievement across Kenya’s travel and tourism ecosystem, recognising organisations and individuals who continue to raise professional standards and drive industry growth.

Beyond celebrating success, KETIBA has become an important networking event where industry leaders gather to reflect on the year’s achievements while building relationships that will shape future collaborations.

More Than Events—They Are Business Opportunities

Collectively, these events demonstrate the strength, resilience and growing interconnectedness of Kenya’s travel industry with regional and global tourism markets. They provide platforms to exchange ideas, discover innovations, build strategic partnerships and identify new commercial opportunities that contribute to the continued growth of the sector.

For travel professionals looking to stay ahead in an increasingly competitive marketplace, the remainder of 2026 offers a calendar filled with opportunities to learn, connect and grow. Missing these events could mean missing the conversations, partnerships and innovations that will shape the future of Kenya’s travel and tourism industry.

IATA appoints Saadia Zahidi as its first female director general

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has appointed Pakistani-Swiss economist Saadia Zahidi as its ninth director general, making her the first female to hold the position.

Her appointment will take effect on Nov 1, 2026, said IATA in a statement.

Saadia will succeed the current director general, Willie Walsh, whose tenure will conclude on July 31, 2026.

IATA chair Roberto Alvo said the association is grateful for Walsh’s outstanding leadership, which helped IATA emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic stronger and with a more representative membership than ever before.

He said the association looks forward to Saadia taking over at a time of significant change in the global environment.

“Saadia’s long and outstanding experience at the World Economic Forum (WEF) will enhance and strengthen IATA as the voice of the world’s airlines. Global air transport is a trillion-dollar industry that has and continues to change the world for the better.

“Technology and geopolitics, among others, will reshape the industry in the future and Saadia brings the right skills to effectively articulate what our industry needs to continue connecting people and economies safely, efficiently and sustainably,” he said.

Alvo, who is also the chief executive officer of LATAM Airlines Group, said Saadia would bring a fresh perspective to IATA and further strengthen its support for the airline industry by building on the association’s well-established technical, financial and data capabilities.

Saadia has spent more than two decades at WEF, serving as managing director and a member of the managing board after previously leading the WEF’s Global Communications Group, Global Programming Group, and its engagement with academics, civil society and international organisations.

She also founded and currently heads the WEF’s Centre for the New Economy and Society, and is a co-author of the WEF’s Future of Jobs Report, Future of Growth Report, Global Gender Gap Report and Chief Economists Outlook.

She has also served on the United Nations (UN) Secretary-General’s High-Level Panel on Women’s Economic Empowerment and the European Space Agency’s High-Level Advisory Group. – Bernama

Source : thestar.com.

Mombasa Hosts KATA Chairman’s Breakfast to Advance Kenya’s Coast Travel & Tourism Future

“The Coast region is not just a gateway; it is a critical part of Kenya’s travel and tourism economy. Look at the numbers… and the opportunities before us require stronger collaboration, innovation and strategic partnerships.”

These remarks by Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) Chairman Dr. Joseph Kithitu during the KATA Chairman’s Breakfast – Coast Edition captured the central message emerging from recent tourism engagements in Mombasa: the Coast’s future will be shaped by stronger partnerships, informed policy, and industry-led collaboration.

Held at Sapphire Hotel in partnership with Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI), the breakfast brought together travel industry leaders and government representatives, including Mohamed Osman Ali, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Tourism, Culture and Trade in Mombasa County. The engagement focused on strengthening collaboration between the public and private sectors to unlock new opportunities for tourism growth across the region.

The discussions come at a time when Mombasa continues to strengthen its position as one of East Africa’s leading leisure, business and cruise tourism destinations. In 2026, the city hosted more than 7,500 delegates during the 11th Our Ocean Conference, while the Port of Mombasa welcomed major cruise calls, including the inaugural 690-passenger visit by Azamara Journey and a turnaround call by Crystal Symphony, further demonstrating the Coast’s growing appeal to international travellers.

Dr. Kithitu also highlighted the strong performance of Kenya’s travel industry, noting that BSP sales had reached USD 292.8 million by June 2026, representing 10 per cent year-on-year growth, with April alone recording an impressive 24.7 per cent increase. The figures reflect continued demand for travel and reinforce the importance of creating an enabling environment that supports sustainable industry growth.

KATA Ensures the Travel Trade Has a Seat at the Policy Table

Beyond industry dialogue, KATA is also ensuring that the travel trade is represented where key tourism policies are being developed.

During a recent engagement convened by the Mombasa Tourism Council, KATA was represented by Ms. Falmina Firoz, Director of Blueways Tours & Travels and Vice Chairperson of the Mombasa Tourism Council. Together with Council Chairman Dr. Sam Ikwaye, PhD, she participated in presenting the Mombasa Beach Management Report and a proposed legislative framework to the Mombasa County leadership for validation.

The report is the culmination of an extensive consultative process involving beach operators, hospitality establishments, tour operators, investors, community representatives and government agencies. It proposes a structured framework aimed at promoting sustainable beach management, protecting the coastal environment, improving visitor experiences and enhancing Mombasa’s competitiveness as a premier tourism destination.

For travel agents and tourism businesses, KATA’s participation in these strategic discussions ensures that the perspectives of the travel trade remain part of decisions that will shape the future of the Coast. From infrastructure and destination management to policy and sustainability, industry representation is essential in building a tourism ecosystem that benefits visitors, businesses and local communities alike.

Together, the Chairman’s Breakfast and KATA’s continued participation in policy discussions demonstrate the Association’s commitment to advancing a collaborative vision for Kenya’s tourism sector—one where data informs decisions, partnerships drive progress, and sustainable destination management creates long-term opportunities for the entire travel value chain.

KATA Members invited to register for 04 November Spotlight on Africa & Indian Ocean Virtual Expo

Travel Agents & Tour Operators can meet, negotiate and interact with 25 African & Indian Ocean Exhibitors Airlines, Tour Operators, Resorts, Tourism Organisations, , and Safari Lodges from 15 different countries in Africa & Indian Ocean islands.

The main objective of the Spotlight Travel Virtual TravelExpo is to promote Inter-regional Travel & Domestic Tourism within Africa & Indian Ocean Islands. The Virtual TravelExpo will take place over two days on 04 & 05 November allowing members to register for both days or for one day only……read more

Can AI-driven tech help bring back tourism travel?

The global restrictions imposed since March this year due to Covid-19 has brought international travel to a screeching halt. It has caused a 22% fall in international tourist arrivals during the first quarter of 2020 and could further decline by 60-80% over the whole year.

Travel will be back — inevitably. But the way we travel will undergo a dramatic transformation.

Although technology may have already changed how travelers plan, book, and embark on their journeys drastically over the past decade, at this juncture, data science and artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to play a major role in helping the industry resuming back to the new normal. Before the pandemic, AI and other forms of machine learning were just beginning to infiltrate the travel sector. Their biggest advantage is the ability to personalize experiences and streamline services based on customer data.

Singapore, for example, is hoping that AI — through local start-ups — can help the city-state’s tourism sector bring back visitors safely, as ongoing border restrictions and lower consumer appetite for international flights have changed travel as an industry.

So what could traveling look like in the wake of the pandemic?

Naturally, companies would explore solutions that allow travelers to maintain social distancing norms as much as possible.

Industry experts believe data science and AI technology will be a key tool in the revival of travel, with electronic passports and IDs, boarding passes, medical screening, and robot cleaners being deployed widely to limit physical contact between people and surfaces.

Source: https://www.hospitalitynet.org/news/4101254.html

KATA announces partnership with Valentis Health – concierge medical services – PCR test

The Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA), the professional member body for certified travel agents in Kenya, today announced that it has partnered with Valentis Health to provide KATA certified agents with preferential access to concierge transfer services for their clients.

Through this strategic partnership Valentis Health will provide the clients of KATA certified agents with personalized PCR testing services, this is a pre-requisite for all passengers prior to undertaking travel to key business and leisure destinations worldwide. Agencies across Kenya can now book appointments for their clients with Valentis Health to access the concierge PCR testing services at the comfort of their client’s home or office.  

“We are excited to partner with Valentis Health,” said Agnes Mucuha, CEO of the Kenya Association of Travel Agents. “It’s clear that passengers are seeking personalized services and professional advisory from KATA certified agents that enables them to make the right decisions in their travel plans. In the wake of the Covid19 pandemic destinations have issued stringent regulations and policies that passengers must adhere to pre and post travel. Our professional KATA certified agents are now rightly positioned to provide the right advisory based on the most up to date information, extending an end to end service experience for their clients from the comfort of their home or office.”

“We believe that the best way to promote the recovery of the travel sector and provide good medical advisories is via the Valentis Health Medical Concierge services. Valentis Health has pioneered ValentisCare Medical Concierge to provide patients with on-demand access to medical personnel. The customer support expertise makes our partnership a clear win-win,” said Anna Othoro, Head of Business Development and Strategy, Valentis Health.

The KATA certified agents handle over 80% of the passenger number bookings made on Airlines operating in Kenya.  They serve as professional advisors to travelers looking into traveling to key business and leisure destinations globally. Following the resumption of the air services in Kenya, KATA has continued to witness a strong recovery in the domestic travel and regional travel. International travel volumes have been growing week on week as travel restrictions are lifted and as traveler confidence increases.

Work remotely in Dubai, New 1-year Virtual Programme

Do you want to mix business with pleasure in Dubai? With a new one-year virtual working programme, you can live and work by the beach – and enjoy daily sunshine in one of the most dynamic cities in the world.

The new programme gives you the freedom to come to Dubai, bring your family, work remotely all while remaining employed in your home country.        

Why work remotely in Dubai?

Dubai is a connected city with a strong digital infrastructure. It’s also one of the safest places in the world, with a blend of cultures from around the globe.

With sandy beaches, incredible dining and world-class entertainment, you’re offered a great quality of life and a range of attractions – with world-class safety and hygiene measures.

You will also have access to convenient facilities and resources to help you further your career or grow your business.

Work culture has changed. Many of us don’t need to share an office with our colleagues or employer – so why stay at home when you can work from Dubai? Take a look at some of the experiences on offer in Dubai.

How does it work?

  • Your virtual working programme is valid 1 year.
  • It costs US$287 plus medical insurance with valid UAE coverage and processing fee per person.
  • You get access to all required services, including telecoms, utilities, and schooling options.
  • You connect to a global hub and a skilled workforce, composed of 200+ nationalities.

What are the steps?

Applicants will need the following:

Passport with minimum 6 months validity

Health insurance with UAE coverage validity

Proof of Employment from current employer with a one-year contract validity, a minimum of US$5,000 per month salary, last months’ payslip and 3 preceding months’ bank statements

Or, if a company owner, then proof of ownership of company for one year or more, with an average monthly income of US$5,000 per month and 3 preceding months’ bank statements

*Payment of processing fee does not guarantee approval of application

How safe is Dubai?

Dubai is fully committed to following all guidelines and measures, ensuring your family’s health is our top priority.

Tourism has reopened in Dubai thanks to safety and hygiene management across the city – with open access to hotels, restaurants, theme parks, beaches and shopping malls.

Dubai was awarded a ‘Safe Travels’ stamp from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). This recognises the emirate’s work to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

Dubai has also introduced the ‘Dubai Assured’ stamp to certify establishments that have implemented all necessary health protocols.

We are uniquely positioned to offer both a safe and dynamic lifestyle, with a positive work-life balance.

The city, widely regarded as a leading entrepreneurial hub, also boasts a wealth of top co-working spaces, offering flexible packages ranging from hour-long meeting rooms through to weekly, monthly or quarterly bookings.

Dubai does not levy income tax on individuals.

Source: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/sc7/travel-planning/travel-tools/work-remotely-in-dubai?confirm=1#thankyou

Qatar Airways Expands Interline Agreement With Kenya Airways

Qatar Airways is pleased to announce it has expanded it’s interline agreement with Kenya Airways to cover 43 destinations across the continent via its 14 weekly flights to and from Nairobi.

The agreement with Kenya Airways will provide two domestic connections to Mombasa and Kisumu in addition to 41 international connections across the continent, including Abidjan, Ivory Coast; Antananarivo, Madagascar; Bamako, Mali; and Monrovia, Liberia.

Qatar Airways Vice President Africa, Mr. Hendrik Du Preez, said: “Since 2016, both airlines have witnessed the significant benefits interline cooperation have brought, providing passengers with unrivaled service and seamless connections.

The expansion of the interline agreement between Qatar Airways and Kenya Airways is a natural next step in the strengthening of our partnership. With our network rebuilding recently surpassing 100 destinations and more than 700 weekly flights, we look forward to working closely with Kenya Airways to support the recovery of international tourism in Kenya.”

“This partnership displays Kenya Airways goal of offering the best to passengers in terms of partners and destinations. In this new environment, we continue our commitment to providing unparalleled safe travel to and from Africa through our Nairobi hub.” said Martin Gitonga, Kenya Airways Head of Planning and Alliances.

Qatar Airways strategic investment in a variety of fuel-efficient twin-engine aircraft, including the largest fleet of Airbus A350 aircraft, has enabled it to continue flying throughout this crisis and perfectly positions it to lead the sustainable recovery of international travel. By the end of 2020, Qatar Airways’ plans to rebuild its network to more than 125 destinations including 20 in Africa, 11 in the Americas, 41 in Asia-Pacific, 38 in Europe and 15 in Middle East. Many cities will be served with a strong schedule with daily or more frequencies.

Qatar Airways operations are not dependent on any specific aircraft type. The airline’s variety of modern fuel-efficient aircraft has meant it can continue flying by offering the right capacity in each market.

Due to COVID-19’s impact on travel demand, the airline has taken the decision to ground its fleet of Airbus A380s as it is not commercially or environmentally justifiable to operate such a large aircraft in the current market.

The airline’s fleet of 49 Airbus A350 and 30 Boeing 787 are the ideal choice for the most strategically important long-haul routes to Africa, the Americas, Europe and Asia-Pacific regions.

Qatar Airways’ onboard safety measures for passengers and cabin crew include the provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for cabin crew and a complimentary protective kit and disposable face shields for passengers.

Business Class passengers on aircraft equipped with Qsuite can enjoy the enhanced privacy this award-winning business seat provides, including sliding privacy partitions and the option to use a ‘Do Not Disturb (DND)’ indicator.

Qsuite is available on flights to more than 30 destinations including Colombo, Karachi, Maldives and Singapore.

Qatar Airways’ home and hub, Hamad International Airport (HIA), has implemented stringent cleaning procedures and applied social distancing measures throughout its terminals.  It is the first entity in the world to achieve independent verification from BSI (British Standards Institution) for its implementation of COVID-19 ICAO Aviation Health Safety Protocols.

The verification was conducted following successful audits for Compliance to International Civil Aviation Organization Civil Aviation Recovery Taskforce ICAO CART. This important achievement marks the State of Qatar as the first country in the world to be verified by BSI for its COVID-19 Aviation Health Safety Protocol Implementation.

Sparing no effort in safeguarding its passengers, HIA continues to maintain a 1.5 metre physical distancing across all passenger touchpoints around the airport, through floor markings, signage and distanced seating.

All passenger touchpoints are sanitized every 10-15 minutes. All gates and bus gate counters are being cleaned after each flight. HIA’s retail and food and beverage outlets encourage contactless and cashless transactions through cards and are considering introducing online or in-app purchases in the future. The airport also conducts regular disinfection of all baggage trolleys and tubs.

HIA was recently ranked Third Best Airport in the World, among 550 airports worldwide, by the Skytrax World Airport Awards 2020. HIA was also voted the ‘Best Airport in the Middle East’ for the sixth year in a row and ‘Best Staff Service in the Middle East’ for the fifth year in a row.

Source: https://www.capitalfm.co.ke/business/2020/10/qatar-airways-expands-interline-agreement-with-kenya-airways/