UAE national carrier Etihad Airways has resumed flights from Abu Dhabi to Nairobi, increasing connectivity between the UAE and Kenya. The route marks another milestone in the airline’s route expansion in 2024.
Connecting two capitals
While the route was initially scheduled to start in May 2024, Etihad has officially returned to Nairobi this month. The inaugural flight (EY767) was operated on December 15, 2024, with the Airbus A320-200 . The aircraft landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) at 13:40 local time, where it was welcomed with a water cannon salute.
Photo: Etihad Airways
Operating from Etihad’s base at Zayed International Airport (AUH), the service creates a vital connection between the UAE’s capital and one of the key African hubs. Etihad is currently the only airline flying between the two cities. Flights to Nairobi will operate four times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays with the following schedule:
Flight
Route
Dep Time
Arr Time
EY767
AUH-NBO
09:05
13:30
EY768
NBO-AUH
18:20
00:20 (+1)
The new route will strengthen ties between the Middle East and East Africa, further supporting tourism between the UAE and Kenya. Speaking about the service, Etihad Airways Chief Revenue Officer Arik De said,
“The introduction of our Nairobi service enhances our growing network while responding to strong travel demand between the UAE and Kenya, as demonstrated by today’s completely full inaugural flight.”
“As both Abu Dhabi and Kenya experience remarkable tourism growth and set ambitious targets for the future, this route creates valuable opportunities for both destinations. The service strengthens the important ties between our regions, supporting Abu Dhabi’s position as a global aviation hub while providing enhanced access to Kenya’s thriving tourism market.”
Supporting international tourism
Flying between Abu Dhabi and Nairobi provides a convenient connection between two cities known for their unique attractions. Abu Dhabi features a blend of modern attractions and cultural heritage, including the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre. Meanwhile, Nairobi combines its commercial strength with natural wonders, including Nairobi National Park, a wildlife reserve located within the city.
Photo: Etihad Airways
Etihad initially announced its return to Nairobi in October 2023 , with the route expected to kick off on May 1, 2024. However, due to undisclosed reasons, the inaugural flight was canceled, and the route was ultimately postponed. The airline planned to operate daily flights with the A320.
Etihad last served Nairobi in 2021, operating two weekly flights with the Boeing 787-9 . The resumption of Nairobi flights follows Etihad’s successful expansion to Antalya, Bali, Boston, Jaipur, Kozhikode, Mykonos, Nice, Qassim, and Thiruvananthapuram in 2024. Heading into the new year, the airline plans to 13 new destinations in 2025.
According to data from Cirium, an aviation analytics company, over 40 weekly flights are scheduled between Kenya and the UAE, operating from three different Emirates. Kenya Airways and Emirates fly between Dubai and Nairobi, while flydubai operates flights from Dubai to Mombasa and then Air Arabia from Sharjah to Nairobi.
Etihad’s Africa expansion
Africa has seen an uptick in international traffic over the last few years , with many new intercontinental routes and new airlines entering the market. Etihad is among the airlines that are increasing their footprint in Africa. Nairobi is the airline’s fifth destination on the continent after Johannesburg, Casablanca, Cairo, and Mahé.
Photo: Etihad Airways
The carrier will fly to three more African cities in 2025, doubling the number of destinations served throughout most of 2024. It will launch flights to El Alamein (Egypt) from July 17, Tunis (Tunisia) from November 1, and Algiers (Algeria), from November 7.
The inaugural flight from Abu Dhabi was warmly welcomed at JKIA today by KAA Board Chair Caleb Kositany.
KAA noted that the resumption marked a significant milestone in the aviation landscape.
KAA and Etihad Airways staff during the latter’s resumption of flights to Nairobi on December 15, 2024/ HANDOUT
Etihad Airways has resumed flights to Nairobi.
In a statement, the Kenya Airport Authority noted that the move enhances connectivity between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Kenya.
“We are thrilled as Etihad officially resumes flights to Nairobi, enhancing connectivity between the UAE and Kenya,” the statement read in part.
The inaugural flight from Abu Dhabi was warmly welcomed at JKIA today by KAA Board Chair Caleb Kositany.
KAA noted that the resumption marked a significant milestone in the aviation landscape.
The resumption was first announced in August 2024, taking effect today, December 15.
Then, Etihad’s Vice President Network and Scheduling Lena Havia lauded the UAE and Kenyan authorities for authorisation to resume flights.
The airline will fly four times a week non-stop between Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport (AUH) and Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO).
Etihad Airways is set to double its routes to Africa over the next year, further committing to serving its guests.
Etihad was serving four African destinations including Johannesburg, South Africa; Cairo, Egypt; Mahe, Seychelles; and Casablanca, Morocco.
Starting December 15, the airline has resumed flights to Nairobi, Kenya, and next year will launch new routes to Tunis, Tunisia; Algiers, Algeria; and Al Alamein, Egypt.
In November, Etihad’s Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer Arik De said they are committed to growing their network in Africa and doubling destinations over 2025.
“We are expanding our frequencies, including boosting both Johannesburg and Casablanca to daily services from next summer,” he said.
“This expansion will connect our guests across the continent with our growing network and bring them to our fantastic home in Abu Dhabi”.
Arik De said the airline will keep on expanding, even to a global level.“We are not stopping there. We recently announced ten new global destinations, including Tunis and Algiers, and plan to announce at least ten more each year as we grow towards 2030,” he said.
“These will include new cities in Africa, and our goal is to make all of these flights daily. We are growing sustainably and offering our customers across Africa the flights and frequencies that make sense to them and fit with our global network.”
There will soon be an additional step to visit the UK even if you don’t need a visa (Credit:Getty Images)
Many international travellers will soon need to register for an online authorisation before touching down in the UK or many EU nations.
Millions of travellers planning a trip to the UK will soon need to register for an online authorisation before landing – even if they’re just transiting en route to their final destination.
From 8 January 2025, visitors from the United States, Canada, Australia and other non-European nations who currently do not need a visa for short stays in the UK will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the country.
To receive an ETA, travellers must fill out an online form and pay a £10 fee (approximately US $12.75). Applicants should hear if their authorisation has been approved in a few hours, but in some cases, a decision may take up to three business days. The authorisation is valid for multiple entries to the UK for stays of up to six months and is good for a two-year period or until the traveller’s passport expires – whichever comes first.
The new authorisation isn’t just aimed at non-Europeans, though: beginning on 2 April 2025, EU nationals will also be required to obtain an ETA before entering the UK. (Citizens of the UK, Ireland and those with valid UK visas will be exempt.)
According to the UK government’s Home Office, the expansion of the ETA scheme (which previously only applied to citizens of seven Middle Eastern nations) is aimed at creating a more streamlined entry system by confirming traveller eligibility to enter the UK before they leave their country of origin. When boarding a plane to the UK, gate agents will verify your ETA status via digital link to your passport thereby reducing time and confusion at border crossings. The Home Office also says the biographic, biometric and contact details collected during the application process will also help to increase security by better tracking traveller movements.
“This expansion of ETA is a significant step forward in delivering a border that’s efficient and fit for the digital age,” Seema Malhotra, UK Minister for Migration and Citizenship, said in a statement. “Through light-touch screening before people step foot in the UK, we will keep our country safe while ensuring visitors have a smooth travel experience.”
US Airport Face Scan: A growing number of countries are transitioning to digital border crossings (Credit: Getty Images)
The UK’s ETA expansion is just one example of several new electronic entry programmes being rolled out around the world. Starting in the spring of 2025, the EU will require a new travel authorisation for visa-exempt foreigners from 60 nations (including the UK, US, Canada and Australia) before they are allowed to enter 30 EU nations. Similar to the ETA, this new programme, called the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), requires short-term travellers to apply online, pay a small fee (€7 – roughly US $7.40 or £5.80) and then wait up to 96 hours for applications to be approved.
The EU is also poised to launch a separate digital monitoring initiative called the Entry/Exit System (EES), which uses face and fingerprint scans instead of passports to identify non-EU nationals. Unlike the ETIAS, this new security measure (which was scheduled to roll out in November 2024 but has been delayed until sometime in 2025) doesn’t require travellers to apply for anything before they start their trip. Instead, travellers will be registered upon entering any of the 29 EU nations using the system.
According to the EU’s travel information website, the goal of the EES is to modernise border crossings and speed up long immigration lines that have surged with the post-pandemic travel demand. Like other digital entry systems that have been in place for years around the world – such as in the US, Canada, and Australia – the new entry system is also aimed at combatting identity fraud and the number of people overstaying in the EU.
However, not everyone is happy about the increased digitisation of the border entry process. Critics of the expanded ETA scheme are concerned that the extra process and fee will be a barrier to younger and less affluent travellers. Others worry that as nations and regions continue to move towards online entry forms, they’ll no longer receive passport stamps, which have long held a sentimental place among travellers. There’s also a general concern about what happens in the event of a tech glitch.
“I’m sad about [the digitisation of travel] and also concerned,” said Kita Jean, a frequent traveller and member of Nomadness Travel Tribe, an online community for travellers of colour. “Passport stamps are a great way to document memories and look back at, but they’re also good for when processes and technology fails.”
As more places continue to implement digital entry systems and fees, only time will tell whether these new changes will help make crossing borders more efficient or whether travellers view them as an inefficient an unnecessary hoops to jump through.
In a landmark achievement for regional connectivity and development, Skyward Express has officially spearheaded the initial inaugural direct flight from Mombasa to Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania.
The introduction of this direct flight is noted to be a great step towards enhancing bilateral relations between Kenya and Tanzania by fostering increased trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Speaking at Moi International Airport, Mombasa, during the launch, Mombasa Governor Abdulswammad Nassir flanked by the Chairman of the Kenya Airports Authority Caleb Kositany emphasized the importance of the new flight in reducing travel time and cost.
Previously, passengers had to connect through Nairobi before heading to Dar-es-Salaam, adding hours to their journey.
“This direct flight not only saves time but also lowers travel costs, making the route more accessible to businesses, tourists, and local travellers,” Nassir noted.
“An active airport doesn’t just benefit Mombasa; it impacts the entire region. With Dongo Kundu having been finished, it has reduced the travel time to Diani to just 30 minutes, and by the time the Mombasa- Malindi Highway is done, getting to Kilifi, Watamu, and Malindi would take even a lesser time than before the growth potential is immense,” he noted.
Nassir highlighted the broader benefits of increased air connectivity, stating that an active open skies policy could link Mombasa to over 300 cities globally. This would not only boost tourism but significantly contribute to Kenya’s GDP by attracting more international passengers.
He also urged policymakers to consider introducing tax incentives and other support mechanisms for local aviation companies to enhance their competitiveness in the global market. “A competitive aviation sector supported by favorable policies will unlock economic potential and ensure Mombasa and neighboring counties reap the full benefits of improved connectivity,” he said.
On his part, Kositany commended Skyward Express for their commitment to bridging regional gaps and lauded the partnership as a critical move towards advancing Kenya’s Vision 2030 goals.
Kositany reiterated that launching the direct flight from Mombasa to Dar-es-salam is a gateway for tourists, entrepreneurs, and everybody who wants to explore and promote the county and country as a key regional and international hub.
He further revealed plans by the Kenya Airports Authority to expand airport facilities to match the growing industry demands.
“Our air travel industry continues to grow, with more Kenyans flying. We are committed to creating a more comfortable and efficient environment by reducing congestion in our airports and enhancing overall passenger experience,” he added.
Skyward Express Chairman, Captain Mohammed Abdi, reflected on the airline’s growth journey, noting that their inaugural flight to Mombasa from Wilson Airport took place eight years ago. Since then, the airline has added two more daily flights from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to Mombasa, offering both morning and evening schedules.
Abdi highlighted the strategic decision to connect through JKIA in the early days, emphasizing the importance of building capacity, acquiring larger aircraft, and positioning the airline as a competitive player.
“Our goal was to offer a superior experience, reducing flight times to Mombasa to less than an hour, a standard that sets us apart from other airlines,” he explained.
He also shared Skyward Express’s recent milestone of launching its first regional flight from Nairobi to Dar-es-Salaam last month, underscoring the airline’s vision to fly daily and seamlessly connect key destinations like Mombasa.
Captain Abdi went on to urge other airlines to build capacity to be able to compete fairly with the big airlines. He concluded by noting that the connectivity of Mombasa to Dar is the airline’s dedication to enhancing regional connectivity while meeting the growing demands of travellers.
9th December 2024, Nairobi– Starting 2nd July 2025, Kenya Airways (KQ) will begin operating direct flights to London’s Gatwick Airport from its hub at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). Kenya Airways will now serve the United Kingdom (UK) through two entry points: London Heathrow Airport (LHR) and London Gatwick Airport (LGW) with KQ Customers being able to choose a second nonstop flight into London.
The flights to Gatwick will operate at night out of Nairobi, 3 times a week specifically on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday and will complement the existing London schedule increasing the London frequency to 10 weekly flights.
Commenting on the new route, Kenya Airways Group Managing Director and CEO said that it is part of KQ’s route expansion strategy and offers convenience for customers. He also hinted at the potential for further expansion, stating that ‘this is just the beginning of our expansion plans for the UK market ‘.
“The United Kingdom is essential and strategic for Kenya Airways and Kenya. It provides a gateway for trade, tourism, education, business, leisure travel, and diaspora connections. We are excited to add Gatwick Airport to our expansive network as it means that KQ guests now have more options in and out of the UK and a convenient schedule that suits their travel preferences.” said Mr Kilavuka.
The flight schedule will operate as indicated below:
Flight Number
Frequency
Departure Time(local time)
Arrival Time(local time)
Destination
KQ 108
Wednesday,
23:45
06:55
Gatwick (LGW)
KQ 108
Friday & Sunday
23:40
06:50
Gatwick (LGW)
KQ 109
Monday
12:10
23:05
Nairobi (NBO)
KQ 109
Thursday
11:00
21:55
Nairobi (NBO)
KQ 109
Saturday
12:25
23:20
Nairobi (NBO)
Located in West Sussex, England, Gatwick Airport is situated 47.5 kilometers south of Central London, making it a convenient gateway for travelers from the Southeast and South of England. Passengers traveling from Gatwick will enjoy seamless connections to Kenya Airways’ extensive network via its hub in Nairobi, ensuring a smooth and connected travel experience. Flights are open for booking on Kenya Airways’ website www.kenya-airways.com , travel agents as well as online travel agents (OTAs).
-ENDS-
About Kenya Airways:
Kenya Airways (KQ), The Pride of Africa, is a leading African carrier on a mission to propel Africa’s prosperity by connecting its people, cultures, and markets. We fly to 44 destinations worldwide, 36 of which are in Africa,
connecting over 5 million passengers and over 70,000 Tons of cargo annually through our 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 honored 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 4747. We are also available on Twitter: @KenyaAirways & @KQSupport, Facebook: @OfficialKenyaAirways, and Instagram: @OfficialKenyaAirways.
KATA officials led by Chairman Dr Joseph Kithitu and CEO Nicanor Sabula presented a petition to the National Assembly Committee of Finance and Economic Planning on behalf of members of the Kenya Association of travel agents (KATA) at the ongoing public participation forum.
The petition called for the scrapping of the proposal to introduce VAT on air ticketing services supplied by Travel Agents. The petition termed the proposals as discriminatory and one that would disadvantage Kenyan agents, lead to loss of business competitiveness, closure of businesses and job losses.
The short-term gains from VAT collection would be far outweighed by long-term declines in overall tax revenues.
A recent newspaper report on a raft of proposals by the National Treasury to among others introduce taxes targeting the aviation sector rekindled the old-aged, misguided characterization of air travel as a “luxury service” enjoyed exclusively by the rich.
This is far from the truth and is misrepresentative of Kenya’s modern economy and the realities of its travel industry.
In the proposals, the National Treasury is seeking to introduce 16% VAT on a number of air travel related services such as air ticketing services by travel agents, hiring, chattering and leasing of aircrafts, aircraft navigation systems among others.
This adjustment, Treasury argues, is a necessary step towards expanding the tax base and ensuring that a wider array of services contributes to national revenue. While the government’s decision to provide tax relief on essentials such as bread and unga is widely welcomed, the suggestion that air travel taxes are a “raid” on the wealthy overlooks the widespread use and importance of air travel across socio-economic strata in Kenya.
Air Travel is a Growing Necessity, not a Luxury
Kenya’s air travel industry has grown rapidly in recent years, reflecting the country’s expanding middle class, the growth of domestic tourism, and the rise of affordable travel options.
Domestic airlines like Jambojet, Skyward and; Safarilink have made it possible for Kenyans from diverse income levels to travel domestically, whether for business, education, family obligations, or tourism.
For instance, it’s now common to find fares from Nairobi to Mombasa or Kisumu for as low as Sh5,000, making air travel an attractive alternative to long bus journeys, particularly in terms of safety and time saved.
Moreover, in some areas where road infrastructure is still developing, air travel remains the only practical choice of travel allowing people to traverse the country with ease and efficiency.
Granted, air travel in Kenya still remains expensive for the average Kenyan- however, to assume that those flying between cities such as Nairobi, Eldoret, Kisumu, Lodwar or Wajir are exclusively wealthy overlooks the reality that many travelers are professionals, small business owners, students, and even rural residents visiting family.
Impact of Proposed Taxes on Business Travel
Taxing air ticketing services is likely to impact Kenya’s small and medium-sized businesses, which rely on affordable domestic flights to expand their reach and access opportunities.
Many entrepreneurs and workers travel within Kenya to secure contracts, attend conferences, and network, all of which support economic growth and job creation. If air ticket prices rise due to new taxes, it could limit access for these business travelers, ultimately affecting productivity and the economy.
Given that Kenya aims to position itself as a regional economic hub, affordable travel options are crucial. For many, air travel is no longer a luxury but a cost-effective solution to meet the demands of a rapidly modernizing economy.
Balancing Revenue with Accessibility
While the government has an obligation to explore all avenues for tax revenue, it’s essential that any changes in tax policy consider the broader implications on everyday Kenyans. Air transport, just like other modes of transportation is a public service consumed by mwananchi at a slightly higher price. It is for the same reason we don’t tax matatus or bus fares or even SGR fares.
Air travel may seem an unlikely target, but for a growing number of Kenyans, it’s a part of their livelihoods. Categorizing air travel as a “rich-only” service fails to recognise the real and growing need for accessible, affordable travel options.
The Treasury’s move to offer tax relief on basic household essentials is welcomed and will greatly benefit Kenya’s lower-income households. But as Kenya’s economy evolves, so too should our perspectives on “luxury” versus “necessity.”
Air travel is today increasingly becoming a basic part of the fabric of Kenyan life, with significant benefits to local economies, small businesses, and personal well-being. Thoughtful tax policy should reflect this reality, balancing the need for revenue with the right to affordable travel for all.
As Kenya looks to grow as a competitive and inclusive economy, it’s clear that air travel is more than a service for the wealthy. It’s a bridge across communities, regions, and economic divides, and any tax policy should reflect its role as an enabler of opportunity—not as a privilege of the elite.
Geneva – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for October 2024 global passenger demand with the following highlights:
Total demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK), was up 7.1% compared to October 2023. Total capacity, measured in available seat kilometers (ASK), was up 6.1% year-on-year. The October load factor was 83.9% (+0.8ppt compared to October 2023).
International demand rose 9.5% compared to October 2023. Capacity was up 8.6% year-on-year and the load factor rose to 83.5% (+0.6ppt compared to October 2023).
Domestic demand rose 3.5% compared to October 2023. Capacity was up 2.0% year-on-year and the load factor was 84.5% (+1.2ppt compared to October 2023).
“Continued strong and stable demand is good news, but just as important is the steady improvement in load factors. It shows what a great job the industry is doing in flying people more efficiently.
Average seat factors have risen from around 67% in the 1990’s to over 83% today. Politicians thinking of trying to tax passengers off planes to reduce emissions would do well to note this. Even if fewer people fly because taxes make it too expensive, it doesn’t automatically mean reduced emissions because the planes will still fly, just with fewer passengers. That would reverse decades hard won progress. We need to see the planes full to generate the economic and social benefits of travel with the most minimal emissions possible,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
Air Passenger Market in Detail
October 2024 (% year-on-year)
World Share1
RPK
ASK
PLF(%-PT)2
PLF(Level)3
Total Market
100%
7.1%
6.1%
+0.8%
83.9%
Africa
2.1%
9.3%
5.2%
+2.8%
73.8%
Asia Pacific
31.7%
12.7%
9.7%
+2.2%
84.1%
Europe
27.1%
7.9%
6.5%
+1.1%
86.2%
Latin America
5.5%
7.0%
7.5%
-0.4%
84.5%
Middle East
9.4%
2.5%
2.7%
-0.1%
80.3%
North America
24.2%
0.3%
1.6%
-1.1%
83.2%
1) % of industry RPKs in 2023 2) Year-on-year change in load factor 3) Load Factor Level
Regional Breakdown – International Passenger Markets
All regions showed growth for international passenger markets in October 2024 compared to October 2023. Europe had the highest load factors, and Africa showed a sharp increase, but the Americas and the Middle East suffered falls.
Asia-Pacific airlines achieved a 17.5% year-on-year increase indemand. Capacity increased 17.2% year-on-year and the load factor was 82.9% (+0.3ppt compared to October 2023).
European carriers had an 8.7% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 7.3% year-on-year, and the load factor was 85.7% (+1.1ppt compared to October 2023).
Middle Eastern carriers saw a 2.2% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 2.5% year-on-year and the load factor was 80.2% (-0.2ppt compared to October 2023).
North American carriers saw a 3.2% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 2.9% year-on-year, and the load factor was 84.2% (+0.3ppt compared to October 2023).
Latin American airlines saw a 10.9% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity climbed 11.6% year-on-year. The load factor was 85.3% (-0.6ppt compared to October 2023).
African airlines saw a 10.4% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity was up 5.3% year-on-year. The load factor rose to 73.2% (+3.4ppt compared to October 2023).
Domestic Passenger Markets
The US showed a surprise slight decline, while all other key domestic markets showed stable growth. Fast-growing Chinese domestic demand is being met with increased use of wide-body aircraft.
October 2024 (% year-on-year)
World Share1
RPK
ASK
PLF(%-PT)2
PLF(LEVEL)3
Domestic
39.9%
3.5%
2.0%
+1.2%
84.5%
Domestic Australia
0.8%
2.9%
-0.5%
+2.8%
86.2%
Domestic Brazil
1.2%
9.5%
7.8%
+1.3%
83.7%
Domestic China P.R.
11.2%
9.7%
2.2%
+5.9%
86.2%
Domestic India
1.8%
6.1%
9.6%
-2.7%
81.7%
Domestic Japan
1.1%
3.3%
-0.2%
+2.9%
84.0%
Domestic US
15.4%
-1.2%
0.8%
-1.7%
82.5%
1) % of industry RPKs in 2023 2) year-on-year change in load factor 3) Load Factor Level
Note: the six domestic passenger markets for which broken-down data are available account for approximately 31.4% of global total RPKs and 78.8% of total domestic RPKs.
Statistics compiled by IATA Economics using direct airline reporting complemented by estimates, including the use of FlightRadar24 data provided under license.
All figures are provisional and represent total reporting at time of publication plus estimates for missing data. Historic figures are subject to revision.
Domestic RPKs accounted for about 41.9% of the total market in 2022. The six domestic markets in this report account for 31.3% of global RPKs.
Explanation of measurement terms:
– RPK: Revenue Passenger Kilometers measures actual passenger traffic
– ASK: Available Seat Kilometers measures available passenger capacity
– PLF: Passenger Load Factor is % of ASKs used.
IATA statistics cover international and domestic scheduled air traffic for IATA member and non-member airlines.
Total passenger traffic market shares by region of carriers for 2023 in terms of RPK are: Asia-Pacific 31.7%, Europe 27.1%, North America 24.2%, Middle East 9.4%, Latin America 5.5%, and Africa 2.1%.
Air France–KLM today announces the launch of a new codeshare agreement with South African carrier Airlink (4Z), effective 3 December 2024.
This commercial partnership will enhance connectivity for travellers, offering Air France and KLM customers access to an extensive range of destinations in the Southern Africa region via Johannesburg (JNB) and Cape Town (CPT) airports. At this stage, the codeshare agreement is active on 14 Airlink domestic destinations in South Africa.
Air France-KLM and Airlink plan to expand it in the future, with additional destinations to come in Angola, Botswana, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eswatini (Swaziland), Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, St Helena, Zambia and Zimbabwe (expansion subject to approval by the relevant authorities).
Air France and KLM currently operate up to 14 weekly flights to Johannesburg and 14 weekly flights to Cape Town on departure from their respective hubs at Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport and Amsterdam Schiphol airport.
Under this agreement, members of Flying Blue, the loyalty program of Air France-KLM will be able to earn miles on Air France and KLM-marketed flights operated by Airlink.
“This codeshare agreement is a significant milestone for Air France-KLM in Southern Africa. It reflects our commitment to offering seamless travel experiences and expanding our reach to connect customers to key destinations in South Africa,” Wilson Tauro, Country Manager Southern Africa at Air France-KLM says. “Together with Airlink, we are unlocking new opportunities for travellers while strengthening our presence in this vital market.”
“Our long-standing commercial interline arrangement with Air France-KLM has created a solid foundation on which to build a more committed relationship with this codeshare. It is a crucial relationship as both Air France and KLM provide extensive reach into many of Airlink’s key source markets in Europe and beyond. Importantly, they both operate direct services to Airlink’s Johannesburg and Cape Town hubs”, adds Rodger Foster, CEO and Managing Director of Airlink.
With plans to expand the number of codeshare routes in the near future, Air France-KLM and Airlink are committed to offering unparalleled travel options to both leisure and business travellers.
This holiday season we want you to experience comfort and style as you travel to/from London. From 1st December 2024 to 15th January 2025, Kenya Airways will operate the Airbus A330-300 on the London route. This introduction aims to give our guests an elevated travel experience by combining style and luxury aboard the Airbus A330-300. Combined with the renowned Kenya Airways world-class hospitality, guests can unwind on the fully flat beds in Business Class, or enjoy elevated comfort in our Economy Class.
The aircraft has a capacity of 46 business class seats for those who prefer to indulge in luxury and 203 spacious economy class seats.
Ready for your next adventure to London? Book today!
Industries across the globe have undergone monumental changes, and the travel sector is no exception. From steam-powered trains of yesteryears to electric ones and who knows what AI will bring, the transformation is undeniable. The role of travel agents has similarly evolved, embracing technology, shifting customer preferences, and the demand for personalized experiences.
Shilen Jobanputra, Director of Travel n Style, a travel agency with a legacy spanning nearly three decades, has witnessed this evolution firsthand. “In the past, ticketing was a physical process—paper tickets for every trip. Now, e-ticketing has not only streamlined operations but also elevated customer convenience,” he shared. The shift from paper to digital was driven by technological advancements, market demands, and a growing emphasis on customer satisfaction.
“Today’s travelers are more informed and discerning. They no longer just buy tickets to get to a destination; they seek experiences, quality service, and innovation,” Jobanputra emphasized. This shift has necessitated a higher standard of excellence and innovation within the travel industry.
KeTIBA: Celebrating Excellence in the Travel Industry
Recognizing this paradigm shift, the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) established the Kenya Travel Industry Business Awards (KeTIBA). These peer-reviewed awards aim to spotlight and celebrate excellence in Kenya’s travel industry. From travel agents to suppliers—including airlines, hotels, and technology providers—KeTIBA honors those who continue to raise the bar in service delivery and innovation.
“Through these awards, KATA aims to encourage continued innovation, dedication, and service excellence among travel agents and their suppliers,” noted KATA CEO Nicanor Sabula. The awards are not just about recognition; they are a testament to the evolving landscape of the travel industry and a call to consistently strive for better.
A Transparent and Credible Process
KeTIBA has instituted a rigorous voting process to maintain credibility and fairness. Travel agents vote for suppliers, and suppliers, in turn, vote for travel agents. To ensure the integrity of the voting process, each institution is provided with a unique access code for the voting portal. This mechanism guarantees that every vote is accounted for and that each establishment can only vote once.
In addition, KATA has partnered with Ronalds LLP, a Kenyan auditing firm, to oversee the voting process. This collaboration underscores KATA’s commitment to transparency and credibility. “We will partner with an audit firm to ensure that winners are determined solely based on legitimate votes. The awards are a true reflection of the industry’s choices,” Sabula emphasized.
The Grand Finale: A Night of Glamour and Celebration
The culmination of the KeTIBA process is a grand gala dinner scheduled for December 11th at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Nairobi. This event promises to be a glittering evening of celebration, marking the end of the year in style.
Attendees, adorned in black and gold attire, will gather to honor the outstanding achievements within the travel industry. The gala dinner will not only celebrate the winners but also serve as a platform for networking and fostering stronger industry relationships.
“This is not just an awards night; it’s a celebration of the resilience, innovation, and excellence that define Kenya’s travel industry,” said Sabula.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Travel Agents
As the travel industry continues to evolve, KeTIBA serves as a reminder of the importance of innovation and dedication to excellence. The awards also highlight the crucial role travel agents play in shaping memorable experiences for their clients.
Jobanputra, reflecting on the journey of the industry, remarked, “It’s inspiring to see how far we’ve come. From ticketing to crafting experiences, the travel industry is not just about getting from point A to point B anymore. It’s about the journey, the memories, and the impact we leave behind.”
As the December gala approaches, it’s clear that KeTIBA is more than just an awards ceremony. It’s a celebration of the industry’s progress, a commitment to its future, and a reminder that excellence and innovation are at the heart of Kenya’s travel industry.
The Kenya Travel Industry Business Awards exemplify the resilience and ingenuity of the travel sector. As the world continues to change, KATA’s initiative stands as a beacon, encouraging stakeholders to embrace innovation, prioritize customer satisfaction, and strive for excellence.
