As AirAsia’s inaugural flight to Nairobi approaches, excitement is reaching a fever pitch, and for good reasons! Kenya is not only the first African country that AirAsia will fly to, but also the gateway to a groundbreaking connection between the continents of Africa and Asia.
To commemorate this historic event, AirAsia is launching a massive week-long sale, offering unbeatable deals on flights to a wide range of destinations.
AirAsia BIG SALE is back !
Booking period: now until 10th November 2024.
Travel period: 21st April to 28th March
Log on to your agency portal account here and BOOK NOW!
Click here for a fly-thru connections list for your reference.
Our Kenyan office, the first in Africa, is now open for business. Visit us Monday to Saturday for tailored assistance.
For the third consecutive year, Kenya Airways (KQ), has been recognized as a Leading Airline at the World Travel Awards 2024. Kenya Airways was awarded as Africa’s Leading Airline in four categories namely:
• Africa’s Leading Airline 2024:
• Africa’s Leading Airline – Business Class 2024
• Africa’s Leading Airline Brand 2024
• Africa’s Leading Inflight Magazine 2024: Msafiri
The World Travel Awards recognizes leading organisations across the travel and tourism economy, including airlines, hotels, tour operators, travel agents, tourist attractions and safaris. These are organisations that have demonstrated innovation and dedication in providing exceptional travel experiences. Most notably, it seeks to recognize African tourism brands that have not only recovered but thrived in the post-pandemic era, demonstrating their resilience.
Speaking at the event, KQ CEO Allan Kilavuka said he was honored and grateful at winning the awards.
“Winning this means so much to us, as it’s not only as a validation of our hard work and efforts but also serves as a motivation to continue striving for excellence. We soared beyond expectations, reaffirming our position as the Pride of Africa.
Addis Ababa, 15 October 2024: Ethiopian Airlines, the largest network operating carrier in Africa, is pleased to announce the commencement of its new passenger service to Port Sudan, a significant Red Sea port city, in the Republic of the Sudan. The inaugural flight departed from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport today following a colorful ceremony graced by delegates from the Republic of Sudan to Ethiopia, and Ethiopian Airlines’ executives. The commencement of Ethiopian Airlines’ new service to Port Sudan further strengthens the airline’s commitment to enhancing connectivity across the African continent and beyond, fostering regional socio-economic growth and facilitating trade and tourism. “We keep growing our network in Africa to provide seamless air connectivity while fostering commerce and tourism within the continent and beyond.” Said Mr. Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines. “With the launch of this flight today, we are opening a new chapter of connectivity in East Africa and the entire continent. We are bringing the world closer to The Sudan and creating a stronger economic link to businesses.”
Port Sudan is Ethiopian Airlines second destination in The Sudan following Khartoum. Ethiopian offers daily passenger services to Port Sudan. The inauguration of this new route emphasizes Ethiopian Airlines’ dedication to broadening its presence throughout Africa, while simultaneously enhancing connectivity for both business and leisure travelers. The flights will offer daily connectivity between Port Sudan and Ethiopian Airlines’ more than 139 destinations globally.
Port Sudan lies on the Red Sea and is home to the Sudan’s main seaport. Port Sudan is also renowned for its beautiful beaches and excellence for scuba diving. Travelers can now book their flights to Port Sudan on Ethiopian Airlines’ digital channels or through their preferred travel agent.
About Ethiopian Ethiopian Airlines Group (Ethiopian) is one of the fastest-growing airlines brand globally and the continent’s largest airline brand. In its seventy-eight years of successful operations, Ethiopian has become one of the continent’s leading carriers, unrivalled in efficiency and operational success. Ethiopian commands the lion’s share of the African passenger and cargo network operating the youngest and most modern fleet to more than 150 domestic and international passenger and cargo destinations across five continents. Ethiopian’s fleet category consists of ultra-modern and environmentally friendly aircraft such as Boeing 737s, 777s, 787s, Airbus A350-900 and De Havilland Q400. Ethiopian is also pursuing multi-hub strategy through hubs in Lomé, Togo with ASKY, in Lilongwe, Malawi with Malawi Airlines and in Lusaka, Zambia with Zambia Airways. Having achieved its strategic plan (Vision 2025) ahead of time, Ethiopian is currently implementing a 15-year strategic plan Vision 2035 that will see it become one of the top 20 most competitive and leading aviation groups in the world. Ethiopian has been champion in various coveted awards including Skytrax’s ‘Best Airline in Africa Award’ for seven consecutive years among others. The airline has been a Star Alliance member since 2011 and has been registering more than threefold growth in the past 10 years.
For more at: www.ethiopianairlines.com Email: CorporateCommunication@ethiopianairlines.com Contact: (251-11)517-8913/8165/8907
[Nairobi, Kenya, October 1, 2024] – Kenya Airways in collaboration with its customers is set to elevate its in-flight dining experience following an exclusive Product Selection event held today at KQ’s Pride Centre. This unique gathering brought together select customers and culinary experts to sample a diverse array of meals and drinks, all aimed at reshaping the airline’s onboard dining experience. Allan Kilavuka, CEO of Kenya Airways, commented on the event, emphasizing that food is one of the most memorable aspects of travel. He stated, “Kenya Airways is committed to transforming in-flight dining from a routine necessity into an enjoyable experience that passengers can genuinely look forward to.”
Kilavuka further emphasized the new upcoming menu, stating, “The new menu will showcase a harmonious mix of global culinary influences and local flavors, guaranteeing that every guest discovers something delightful to enjoy. Our goal is for our meals to be as thrilling as the destinations you’re visiting.” Sustainability is also a key focus of this initiative, with Kenya Airways planning to source ingredients responsibly and support local producers. Kilavuka noted that this approach marries the culinary experience with a commitment to environmental stewardship, enhancing the meal while contributing to the well-being of the planet. Attendees at the event were encouraged to provide feedback, which will help shape the future of Kenya Airways’ in-flight offerings. This interactive experience underscores the airline’s dedication to passenger engagement, making customers feel heard and valued in the decision-making process. “Through this event, Kenya Airways is not only elevating its in-flight dining but also redefining what travelers can expect from their journeys,” Kilavuka stated. He added, “We aim to ensure that every aspect of your flight is enjoyable, from takeoff to landing, leaving you with delicious memories long after the plane has landed.” As Kenya Airways continues to innovate and refine its services, travelers can look forward to a dining experience that captures the essence of hospitality and flavor, making every journey not just a means to an end but a delightful part of the adventure.
Ends…
About Kenya Airways: Kenya Airways (KQ), The Pride of Africa, is Kenya’s national carrier and a leading African airline on a mission to propel Africa’s prosperity by connecting its people, cultures, and markets. We fly to 45 destinations worldwide, 37 of which are in Africa, connecting over 5 million passengers and over 70,000 Tons of cargo annually through the Hub at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
As the sole African carrier in the SkyTeam Alliance, we open up a world of possibilities for our customers, connecting them to over 1,060 destinations in 173 countries. We take pride in offering a delightful flying experience with a caring African touch. Our exceptional African hospitality has consistently earned us global recognition including the prestigious Skytrax World Airline Awards where we were honoured with the Best Airline Staff and Best Airline Cabin Crew in Africa in 2024. For more information, visit www.kenya-airways.com or call our 24-hour Customer Services Desk at +254 20 327
We are also available on X: @ KenyaAirways & @ KQSupport , Facebook: @ OfficialKenyaAirways, Instagram: @ OfficialKenyaAirways Tiktok: @officialkenyaairways For all media enquiries, please reach out to Kenya Airways Corporate Communications at Corporate.communications@kenya-airways.com.
THE Tanzania Association of Travel Agents (TASOTA) has underscored the need to embrace innovative technologies to shield the sector from disruptions like the Covid-19 pandemic.
Agnes Rwegasira, the TASOTA chairperson, made this appeal at a travel convention and annual general meeting (AGM) in Dar es Salaam yesterday, an event that brought together key stakeholders from the travel, tourism and hospitality industries.
The meeting was intended for crucial deliberations, networking and collaboration with the expectation of shaping the future of the local travel industry.
“We are gathered here with various stakeholders from the airlines and the tourism sector in general. Our goal is to collaborate with the government and private agencies to promote domestic and international tourism in line with the country’s policies,” she stated.
The meeting featured panel discussions on how East African countries can work together to enhance tourism, address policy and infrastructure challenges and foster the industry’s sustainable development.
The new distribution capability protocol adopted by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) came up for discussion, which stakeholders say is revolutionizing airline services by enabling personalized offers and improving financial systems.
Discussions centred on how to capitalise on Tanzania’s leisure tourism potential with luxury offerings, innovative experiences and international partnerships, without offsetting sustainable tourism practices.
“Conversations highlighted the need to expand domestic air connectivity, address challenges in remote areas, making air travel more accessible and sustainable across the country, ” she explained.
David Kihenzile, the Transport deputy minister, remarked that the growth of the travel and tourism sector has to be aligned with sustainability, stressing that environmental considerations should be integral to business strategies, not an afterthought.
“As key stakeholders in the industry, you have the power to lead by example by adopting sustainable practices, such as initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and investing in eco-friendly infrastructure and responsible tourism,” he stated.
The TASOTA leadership, government representatives, industry experts from IATA and regional travel executives offered valuable insights into the future of local air travel and in the Southern Africa region.
Air France is revolutionising its onboard WiFi service. From 2025 onwards, the airline will progressively roll-out an ultra-high-speed connectivity service for a ‘ground-like’ experience. This new service, completely free-of-charge in all travel cabins, will be accessible to customers by logging into their Flying Blue account. Over time, this WiFi service will be made available onboard all the airline’s aircraft, replacing the current offer.
Air France has chosen Starlink for high-speed, low-latency connectivity. During their flight, customers will be able to stay in touch with friends and family, follow all the world’s news live, play video games online, and stream TV, films, and series. The service will be accessible from smartphones, digital tablets, and laptops, and each customer will be able to connect several devices simultaneously.
Customers will be able to access the service by logging into their Flying Blue account, the Air France-KLM Group’s loyalty program. Those who do not yet have a Flying Blue account can create one free-of-charge onboard and in just a few clicks.
As of the summer 2025 season, Air France will gradually equip all its aircraft with this cutting-edge technology, including its regional fleet. During this transitional period, the airline will continue to offer a connectivity service onboard aircraft that are not yet equipped, including a free ‘Message Pass’ for Flying Blue members and a paid offer that covers other needs.
Ben Smith, CEO of Air France-KLM, will talk exclusively at FTE Global – the “CES of Aviation” – taking place in Los Angeles on 28-30 October 2024. He will share insights on the airline’s future plans and strategies for continued growth.
Kenya Airways partners with African airlines to revolutionize intra-continental travel, delivering monumental savings and enhancing air travel accessibility across Africa.
Kenya Airways Ltd., commonly referred to as Kenya Airways, serves as the national airline and flag carrier of Kenya. Established in 1977 following the dissolution of East African Airways, the airline has its main headquarters in Embakasi, Nairobi. Its primary hub is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, facilitating both domestic and international operations.
Kenya Airways has voiced its support for the consolidation of African airlines, emphasizing that such a move could significantly reduce the cost of air travel within the continent. The airline’s CEO, Allan Kilavuka, highlighted the potential financial benefits of merging national carriers, especially for African countries that struggle to maintain a profitable fleet size. According to Kilavuka, a fleet of at least 50 aircraft is necessary for commercial airlines to achieve sustainable profitability, a target many African carriers find difficult to reach.
By merging, African countries could create regional aviation hubs, streamline operations, and eliminate redundant costs. These savings could then be passed on to passengers, making air travel more affordable and accessible within Africa.
Kilavuka also pointed out that the slow progress in implementing the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), which was introduced in 2018 to liberalize air travel across the continent, has negatively impacted seat occupancy rates for national airlines. He believes that accelerating the adoption of this initiative would further enhance the viability of African carriers and increase the demand for air travel across the region.
On 13th September 2024, Kenya Airways successfully operated its first flight fully staffed by accredited crew under the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Flight KQ554 from Nairobi to Kinshasa, today, marked this significant milestone for the airline, joining a select group of African carriers that have achieved this prestigious certification.
The crew are part of a 71 Kenya Airways personnel who have completed rigorous training to obtain the EASA Attestation Certificate, demonstrating their proficiency in managing safety and service functions on European registered aircraft.
“We are proud to have a significant portion of our cabin crew successfully complete the EASA training program, demonstrating their proficiency in meeting the rigorous requirements of this internationally respected certification,” the Chief Operating Officer, George Kamal, stated. “This accomplishment exemplifies Kenya Airways’ leadership in the African aviation industry and our preparedness to match international standards.”
The EASA Certification equips the KQ team to effectively manage safety and service operations on European registered aircraft during ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) operations. This reinforces the airline’s commitment to providing world-class aviation services and adhering to the highest international safety standards. “This milestone places our cabin crew in an advantageous position, benchmarked against global standards, and showcases our operational excellence,” notes Pauline Kihara, Head of In-Flight Services and Catering. “By aligning with one of the best regulatory frameworks in the world, we not only enhance the capabilities of our cabin crew but also strengthen the confidence of our passengers in the safety and quality of our services.”
The addition of EASA certification marks a new chapter in the history of Kenya Airways as the airline continues to strive to meet and exceed global standards. It also highlights the airline’s success in aligning ACMI operations with its regulations and standardizing cabin services. EASA compliance reaffirms Kenya Airways’ longstanding commitment to passenger safety and solidifies its position as a leading and innovative airline on the global stage.
The Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) is delighted to announce a courtesy visit from the Chief Executive Officer of AirAsia X Mr. Benyamin Ismail and the Group Chief Commercial Officer of AirAsia Group Mr. Paul Carroll. The high-level delegation met with KATA board members to discuss the recent opening of AirAsia’s inaugural sales office in Africa, the upcoming inaugural flight to Nairobi on November 15, and the exciting opportunities available for travel agents to partner with the airline.
During the meeting, AirAsia executives expressed their enthusiasm for the African market and highlighted the potential for significant growth in the coming years. They emphasized the airline’s commitment to providing affordable fares and exceptional customer service, making it an attractive option for both leisure and business travelers.
KATA board of directors welcomed AirAsia’s expansion into Africa and expressed their support for the airline’s initiatives. They discussed the potential benefits of partnering with AirAsia, including increased revenue streams, access to new markets, and opportunities for professional development.
The meeting also focused on the support that travel agents can provide to AirAsia in promoting its services and attracting customers. KATA pledged its commitment to working closely with the airline to ensure a successful launch and ongoing partnership.
As AirAsia prepares for its inaugural flight to Nairobi, the airline’s presence in Africa is expected to have a significant impact on the continent’s tourism industry. With its affordable fares and extensive network, AirAsia is poised to become a major player in the African aviation market.
We see potential in this partnership and believe AirAsia‘s entry into the Kenyan market will create opportunities for our members, including new revenue streams and professional development, opening access to 150 underserved destinations and enhance connectivity. Air Asia will operate 4 flights a week and target 150,000 passengers annually. Others present were Allenie Caccam Business Growth Head and Siew Lee Group Head of Sales and Distribution.
Ethiopian Aviation University calls for international applicants for a cabin crew training program.
Our Basic Cabin Crew Training provides the perfect foundation, where training will be provided on airplane mock-up devices by expert instructors with an emphasis on safety and customer service. Get ready to take off for an exciting journey through the skies! Begin your aviation journey today!
Ethiopian Aviation Academy (EAA) is the largest and most modern aviation academy in Africa recognized as ICAO Regional Training Center of Excellence. To train aviation professionals from classrooms to full flight simulator training, EAA offers leading industry standard training for pilots, aircraft technicians, cabin attendants and ground services staff both for initial and recurrent students. The Leadership & Career Development Center is also training thousands in Management and Leadership Skills.
Our cabin crew training simulates real-time scenarios with training aircraft designed for emergency drills and service trainings. Our pilot training school uses light aircraft for its basic training with dedicated simulators. Full flight simulators of all fleets Ethiopian operates are available for flight training. Virtual Maintenance Trainers (VMTs) and various workshops feature our aircraft maintenance training. Beyond these, our academy develops standard training packages including e-learning and virtual classroom trainings. Trainee services include a trainee’s cafeteria, dormitories, an administration complex and a plush new auditorium. The academy plans to take in 4,000 students a year in its training programs.
In line with the rapid growth of Ethiopian Airlines Group, Ethiopian Aviation Academy has been upgraded to Ethiopian Aviation University, which will enable it to provide a broader range of educational programs and increase the level of expertise in the Aviation Industry. The University has been accredited by the Ethiopian Higher Education Relevance and Quality Agency (HERQA), to offer undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various aviation and hospitality fields.
Ethiopian Aviation University has been accredited by Ethiopian Higher Education Relevance and Quality Agency to offer undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various aviation and hospitality fields.
Currently, the University offers various aviation courses such as BSc in Aeronautical Engineering, Aviation Maintenance Engineering, Aviation Management & Operations, BA in Tourism & Hospitality Management, MSc in Data Science, MBA in Aviation Management. The University also offers Diploma and Certificate Programs in Aircraft Maintenance Technician, Pilot Training, Cabin Crew and Commercial Training, Leadership & Career Development, Catering Training in addition to ICAO and Online Courses. Ethiopian also owns training facilities in other regional cities of the country including in Hawassa, Dire-Dawa, Bahir-Dar and Mekelle.
Link to website https://corporate.ethiopianairlines.com/eaa
About Ethiopian
Ethiopian Airlines Group (Ethiopian) is one of the fastest-growing airlines brand globally and the continent’s largest airline brand. In its seventy-eight years of successful operations, Ethiopian has become one of the continent’s leading carriers, unrivalled in efficiency and operational success. Ethiopian commands the lion’s share of the African passenger and cargo network operating the youngest and most modern fleet to more than 150 domestic and international passenger and cargo destinations across five continents. Ethiopian’s fleet category consists of ultra-modern and environmentally friendly aircraft such as Boeing 737s, 777s, 787s, Airbus A350-900 and De Havilland Q400.
Ethiopian is also pursuing multi-hub strategy through hubs in Lomé, Togo with ASKY, in Lilongwe, Malawi with Malawi Airlines and in Lusaka, Zambia with Zambia Airways. Having achieved its strategic plan (Vision 2025) ahead of time, Ethiopian is currently implementing a 15-year strategic plan Vision 2035 that will see it become one of the top 20 most competitive and leading aviation groups in the world. Ethiopian has been champion in various coveted awards including Skytrax’s ‘Best Airline in Africa Award’ for seven consecutive years among others. The airline has been a Star Alliance member since 2011 and has been registering more than threefold growth in the past 10 years.
For more at: www.ethiopianairlines.com
Contact us on nbores@ethiopianairlines.com/nbocto@ethiopianairlines.com
