Skyward Express has launched its Inaugural flight from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The 109-seater capacity Fokker 100 jet will offer passengers a luxurious experience as they visit one of East Africa’s premium destinations that offer business opportunities, a rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife and historical heritage.
Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir echoed the commitment by Skyward as a premium airline by a local Investor with regional flight in a space that was previously thought to be dominated by international investors as it serves remote flight routes in the Eastern African Region.
Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has further bolstered its presence across Africa, with the introduction of additional flights to Entebbe, Uganda; Addis Abba in Ethiopia; and Johannesburg, South Africa.
Since the inaugural flight into Africa with Cairo as its first destination in 1986, Emirates has progressively grown its presence on the continent and now serves 20 passenger and cargo gateways, boosting Africa’s connectivity and air transport market development.
Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer said, “Africa has long been a priority region for Emirates, and we will deepen our strategic focus of expansion and continued investment on the continent, as an important anchor for our future network. The introduction of frequencies to our existing points in Uganda, South Africa and Ethiopia help support the region’s growth and provide critical links using Dubai as a key gateway to emerging economies across Asia and the Middle East.
“Over the last 30 years Emirates has played a pivotal role in the development of the region’s aviation and tourism sectors, not just through scaling our operations but by establishing strategic partnerships with local governments, tourism boards and likeminded airline partners across the travel ecosystem, to nurture the industry and realise its untapped potential.”
Increasing frequencies to maximize connectivity From 27 October, Emirates ramped up operations between Dubai and Uganda from five weekly flights to a daily service. Operated via a Boeing 777-300ER the additional flight will add 718 seats to and from Dubai-Entebbe every week, connecting to popular onwards destinations from Dubai such as Canada, the US, India and the UK, to name a few. As the only airline offering First Class in and out of Entebbe, the additional flights will enable more passengers to experience Emirates’ unrivalled experience with luxurious touches, a premium gastronomic selection of dishes and fine beverages, and one of the biggest screens in the sky, all in midst of comfort and privacy.
The move builds on Emirates two-decade long commitment to Uganda, a vibrant gem on the airline’s vast global network and up and coming tourism destination. At the 2024 Arabian Travel Market, Emirates signed an MoU with the Uganda Tourism Board, aiming to encourage a diverse range of international travellers to experience the destination’s abundance of natural, cultural and adventure attractions. The additional frequency will further support this, as Uganda continues to invest in building its tourism proposition.
Ringing in the new year, Emirates will also increase frequency in Ethiopia, with a daily flight connecting Dubai and Addis Abba from 1 January 2025. Visitor numbers to Ethiopia continue to grow, guided by the vision to make Ethiopia one of the top five tourist destinations in Africa by 2025. By boosting its flight frequencies, Emirates will provide more convenient access, particularly for travellers from the Middle East and Far East.
This will be swiftly followed by the fourth daily flight to Johannesburg, which, from 1 March 2025, will introduce a morning slot to and from South Africa’s largest and busiest international airport. The additional flight brings Emirates’ operations back to pre-pandemic levels, with 49 weekly flights into South Africa, one of the airline’s most in-demand destinations in Africa.
Once the additional frequencies are activated, Emirates will provide 161 weekly flights between African destinations and Dubai.
Tickets can be booked now on emirates.com, the Emirates App, Emirates Retail stores, Emirates contact centre, or via travel agents.
Expanding the network to serve more of Africa With 17 countries in Africa and a further 63 countries and territories globally, Emirates offers near-unrivalled connectivity, further amplified by its extensive partnership network. In Africa, the airline’s footprint expands to over 210 regional points through 5 codeshare and 18 interline partners, providing access to more regional points via frictionless, one-ticket travel and simplified baggage throughput.
As an example, in 2023 Emirates signed an interline agreement with Royal Air Maroc, providing travellers with 18 additional domestic points in Morocco, such as Fez, Tangiers, Marrakech and many others, as well as an additional 17 routes beyond Dubai on an interline basis.
In addition to offering access to smaller regional points across the continent, Emirates’ partnerships unlock access to unique and exclusive destinations too. Through its interline agreement with South African carrier Cemair, Emirates enables customers to visit stunning leisure points such as Margate and Plettenberg Bay, while Pro Flight Zambia unlocks once-in-a-lifetime safari experience in Lower Zambezi National Park.
Earlier this month, Emirates made its much-awaited return to Lagos, connecting Nigeria’s economic hub to its global network with a direct, daily flight. Enhancing premium travel options, Emirates is one of only two airlines offering First Class in and out of Lagos.
The airline’s cargo arm, Emirates SkyCargo, will also benefit from the additional passenger flights, which complement its eight weekly scheduled freighters enabling the swift, efficient and reliable movement of goods from Africa to the world. Providing unmatched flexibility to meet demand, Emirates SkyCargo deploys its freighters between six African destinations, to boost the cargo capacity as required. Likewise, to better manage capacity, Emirates SkyCargo moves general cargo from Johannesburg to Cape Town and Durban via trucks, to ensure goods move on customer’s timelines; the additional passenger flights will address these capacity constraints in each market, as the airline prepares for future growth, with the delivery of new freighters up until the end of 2026.
A recent BCD survey found that business travelers prioritize flight departure time, arrival time, and length when it comes to booking air travel. Convenience, flexibility and price also rank as top priorities. The survey, from August 2024, gathered insights from over 1,300 business travelers who took to the skies in the past 12 months.
Convenience is key
When it comes to air travel, convenience is a top priority. From seat selection to checked baggage, many travelers are willing to pay for extra comfort and flexibility. In fact, nearly half of those surveyed are opting for fully or partially refundable tickets, allowing them to manage unpredictable travel plans without stress. Priority boarding, fast-tracked security, and extra legroom also rank high among add-ons that business travelers are happy to splurge on. Negotiate for these amenities in your supplier conversations.
What influences flight choices?
No surprise here. Price is a major influence on flight selection, with 51% of travelers agreeing it affects their decisions. Four out of 10 travelers prioritize finding the cheapest flight available, even if it comes at the cost of fewer flexible options. The balancing act between comfort and cost continues to challenge corporate travelers, something to keep in mind when shaping travel policies.
But what stands out even more is how the time of departure, flight duration, and employer policy impact decisions. In fact, 71% of respondents cite scheduling as the most important factor, highlighting the need for policies that align with both traveler preferences and corporate goals. While some situations are unavoidable or out of anyone’s control, employers can improve the employee experience by making adjustments to their travel policy.
“A travel policy has the potential to drastically influence employee wellbeing and satisfaction,” said Teri Miller, executive vice president, Global Client Team at BCD. “Adding ancillaries covered by the company like priority boarding or lounge access can make traveling for work more enjoyable and less stressful for employees. Allowing a flexible schedule, work from home or time off after a business trip can also help your employees adjust after returning home.”
Class and duration: A snapshot of business travel
The majority of travelers use air travel for trips between two and six days. For short-haul flights under six hours, 88% of travelers opt for economy class. Business class, while more luxurious, is typically reserved for long-haul flights, with three out of 10 travelers choosing this option for extended trips. The survey’s data around service classes can offer valuable insights for organizations seeking to optimize both traveler comfort and cost-efficiency.
A sustainable approach?
Sustainability is a growing concern in the travel industry, but may not always be top-of-mind for business travelers. While 66% of respondents opt for direct flights (which are both convenient and eco-friendly), few actively choose flights based on carbon emissions, and only 16% are trying to fly less. With two-thirds of respondents admitting they rarely or never consider sustainability if it raises costs, there’s clearly room for improvement.
Olivia Ruggles Brise Vice President of Sustainability BCD
“From our last buyer survey on travel policy, we saw that nearly a quarter of buyers rank making their policy more sustainable as a top priority,” said Olivia Ruggles-Brise, vice president of Sustainability at BCD. “However, this research shows that travelers themselves are not prioritizing sustainability in the same way. Travel managers can influence their travelers’ behavior through encouraging or mandating sustainable measures, which often go hand in hand with traveler wellness. Direct flights, for instance, are more sustainable and less stressful for travelers. Though they may come at a higher cost, direct flights result in less emissions than indirect or stopover flights. On the other hand, while business class is better for traveler comfort, it may not be the most sustainable option. Prioritizing only trips that are vital and choosing business class for those trips can strike a balance, benefiting both traveler wellness and sustainability.”
Addressing traveler challenges and wellbeing
Nearly 70% of travelers report being satisfied with their company’s travel policy and preferred suppliers. However, challenges remain. From booking user-unfriendly tools to low-cost airlines that impact comfort, corporate travelers face frustrations that can hinder productivity. Travelers also experience physical discomfort, especially with overnight flights and long-haul drives immediately after landing. Employers have an opportunity to enhance traveler wellbeing by addressing these pain points.
Offering benefits like priority boarding, lounge access, and flexible post-trip schedules can improve the overall travel experience, boosting morale and productivity.
By understanding travelers’ needs and preferences, businesses can adapt their travel programs, ensuring a balance between cost control, traveler care and sustainable practices for the future. BCD’s Program Managers can help customers review their current travel policy, and our consulting division Advito also specializes in assessing, benchmarking and rewriting policies. Once updates are in place, it’s crucial to have a communications strategy that engages and educates travelers. Advito’s Engage experts can help craft a communication strategy that uses cutting-edge marketing tactics to ensure travelers are getting the message.
The travel industry has become increasingly global, with travelers booking flights, accommodations, and tours across borders. For travel agents, this growth means handling a wide array of currencies, payment systems, and financial regulations. Whether booking a vacation package for a family in Maasai Mara or arranging a business trip for a client in Nairobi, travel agents must navigate complex currency exchange and cross-border payment issues.
These challenges can impact profitability, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency. In this piece, we’ll explore how travel agents can effectively manage currency exchange fluctuations, reduce payment-related headaches, and leverage modern payment solutions to offer seamless service to their global clients.
1. The Challenge of Currency Exchange in the Travel Sector
One of the primary obstacles for travel agents dealing with international clients is currency exchange. When your business deals with multiple currencies, you face several challenges:
Fluctuating Exchange Rates: Currency exchange rates can change rapidly, leading to unexpected costs or lost profits. For example, if the exchange rate shifts between the time of booking and payment, you might end up receiving less than anticipated for a booking, or you may need to pass on the higher cost to your clients.
Hidden Fees: Traditional banks and payment processors often charge high fees for currency conversion, cutting into your margins. These fees can be particularly damaging when travel agents are processing high volumes of small transactions or payments from clients in various currencies.
Inaccurate Payment Calculations: Ensuring your quotes match the final payment amounts is a common issue, especially when working with fluctuating exchange rates. Clients might expect to pay a specific amount, but unexpected changes in the exchange rate can lead to discrepancies, resulting in client dissatisfaction or even disputes.
To mitigate these challenges, travel agents need to adopt solutions that minimize the impact of currency exchange fluctuations and reduce conversion costs.
2. Choosing the Right Cross-Border Payment Solution
The key to handling international transactions efficiently lies in selecting the right cross-border payment platform. Traditional banks or payment processors may not provide the flexibility or cost efficiency needed for managing global payments. Here’s how modern payment solutions can help:
a. Multi-Currency Accounts
One of the most effective ways for travel agents to manage currency exchange is by using multi-currency accounts. These accounts allow you to hold funds in different currencies, meaning you don’t always have to convert currencies when making or receiving payments.
Hold and pay in local currencies: With a multi-currency account, you can hold payments in the currencies that match your suppliers’ and clients’ preferences (e.g., USD, EUR, GBP, TZS, etc.). This eliminates the need for constant currency conversion, saving you on exchange rates and fees.
Minimize exchange rate risk: By holding funds in different currencies, you reduce the risk of currency fluctuations impacting the final amount. If the exchange rate moves unfavorably between the time of booking and payment, holding the local currency can protect you from additional losses.
b. Transparent Exchange Rates
A major issue with traditional cross-border payments is the lack of transparency in exchange rates and additional hidden fees. Many payment providers charge a margin on top of the mid-market rate, which can add up quickly.
Competitive exchange rates: Partnering with a cross-border payment provider like Verto, which offers competitive exchange rates, can help you manage this issue. By locking in better rates upfront, travel agents can offer more accurate pricing to their clients and avoid surprises in final payment amounts.
No hidden fees: Modern payment platforms are often more transparent with their fee structures. Instead of dealing with multiple hidden charges and intermediary fees, you can know exactly how much you’ll pay and how much your client will owe, making it easier to provide consistent pricing and reduce friction in the payment process.
c. Faster Payment Processing
Cross-border payments can take several days to process when using traditional banking systems. For travel agents, this delay can disrupt the cash flow, especially when paying suppliers or reconciling funds across different currencies.
Instant or near-instant payments: With digital payment solutions, international payments can be processed within hours or even in real-time, depending on the currencies and countries involved. This speed ensures that your transactions, whether between clients or suppliers, are completed on time, preventing delays in bookings and supplier payments.
Cash flow management: Faster payments mean improved cash flow for your business, allowing you to meet your financial obligations promptly and continue to grow without worrying about payment bottlenecks.
3. Reducing Payment Friction for Global Clients
The experience your clients have when paying for their travel bookings is just as important as the services you provide. Handling payments smoothly and offering flexible options can greatly enhance customer satisfaction.
a. Multiple Payment Methods
Global clients have different preferences for how they want to pay for travel bookings, whether by credit card, digital wallet, or bank transfer. Offering a variety of payment options makes it easier for clients to complete their bookings, regardless of where they’re located.
5. Benefits of Efficient Cross-Border Payments for Travel Agents
Implementing a seamless, cost-effective cross-border payment system provides several benefits for travel agents:
Improved cash flow: Faster and more efficient payments help travel agents maintain a healthy cash flow by reducing delays in receiving payments from clients or paying suppliers.
Enhanced client trust and satisfaction: Transparent pricing, flexible payment options, and competitive exchange rates improve the overall client experience, leading to higher satisfaction and repeat business.
Operational efficiency: Automated currency conversion, reporting, and payment tracking help streamline operations, freeing up time to focus on growing your travel business.
For travel agents handling cross-border payments, Verto provides an efficient way to collect payments from clients globally. With its global accounts and low-cost cross-border payment solutions, travel agents can easily collect payments in the preferred currencies of their clients, without the hassle of manual conversions or delays.
By adopting a platform like Verto for cross border payments, travel agents can provide clients with an easy and secure way to pay from anywhere in the world, reducing friction during the booking process. This enhances the customer experience and ensures that travel agents can focus more on providing exceptional services rather than worrying about payment delays or fees.
In conclusion, navigating the complexities of currency exchange and cross-border payments is a necessary part of doing business in today’s globalized market. By leveraging advanced payment solutions like Verto, which provide multi-currency global accounts, competitive exchange rates, and seamless collections, travel agents can ensure smoother transactions for themselves and their clients.
Managing payments efficiently not only reduces operational costs but also enhances the overall customer experience. Whether you’re booking a luxury vacation package for a client in Europe or managing group tours for clients from within Africa, having a streamlined payment process is essential for staying competitive and building lasting relationships with your global clients.
By adopting modern cross-border payment solutions, travel agents can position themselves for success in an increasingly interconnected world, enabling them to grow their business while providing exceptional service to travelers worldwide.
Kenya has taken a major step in enhancing its connectivity to the Asia-Pacific region with the arrival of AirAsia X’s maiden flight from Kuala Lumpur to Nairobi.
The historic flight, which landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), marks the first direct connection between Malaysia and Kenya and positions Nairobi as a gateway to Africa for travellers from East and Southeast Asia. The inaugural flight carried 377 passengers, including tourists, businesspeople, and students, and was welcomed with fanfare by top government and industry officials.
Kenya has taken a major step in enhancing its connectivity to the Asia-Pacific region with the arrival of AirAsia X’s maiden flight from Kuala Lumpur to Nairobi.
The historic flight, which landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), marks the first direct connection between Malaysia and Kenya and positions Nairobi as a gateway to Africa for travellers from East and Southeast Asia. The inaugural flight carried 377 passengers, including tourists, businesspeople, and students, and was welcomed with fanfare by top government and industry officials.
This is a significant achievement for Kenya. We are opening our skies to the Asia-Pacific region, bringing more tourists and boosting our economy. With over 360 passengers on this maiden flight, we are well on track to achieving our tourism targets,” Miano said. The route is expected to enhance trade, tourism, and investment opportunities between Kenya and Asia-Pacific countries. Passengers on the inaugural flight included travellers from China, Japan, the Philippines, Singapore, and Australia, underscoring the route’s potential to attract a diverse range of visitors.
“This is our first flight into Africa, and it’s a momentous occasion. We aim to bring new travellers to Kenya, many of whom are flying for the first time. Our low-cost model ensures affordability and accessibility,” said AirAsia X CEO Benyamin Ismail The direct eight-and-a-half-hour flight significantly reduces travel time, which previously required connecting flights taking up to 19 hours. AirAsia X will operate the route four times weekly, with plans to increase frequency based on demand.
This direct connection will enhance tourism, trade, and education exchanges, benefiting both countries,” said Malaysian Ambassador to Kenya, Ruzaini Mohamad. The route is expected to attract delegations from Malaysia to Kenya. In the coming week, 12 Malaysian tech companies and 17 coffee distributors are set to visit Kenya, exploring opportunities in technology and coffee value chains. Tourism industry stakeholders welcomed the development, citing its potential to boost the sector. Felix Musa, CEO of Viutravel, noted that direct flights not only enhance convenience but also bring competitive pricing. “This is a game-changer for the industry. We are working with AirAsia X to offer attractive packages for both inbound and outbound travelers,” Musa said.
Meetings Africa and Africa’s Travel Indaba back for 2025 editions!
Johannesburg, South Africa – Mark your calendars for the 2025 editions of the African continent’s trade events designed to elevate the African continent’s leisure tourism and business events industry.
South African Tourism-owned Meetings Africa and Africa’s Travel Indaba are back in 2025 and are set to enhance business connections and networking opportunities. These Pan Africa shows will once again offer robust agendas featuring a diverse range of exhibitors, insightful workshops, and keynote presentations from industry leaders and experts, providing opportunities for global tourism professionals to connect, collaborate, and create lasting value and economic impact.
Meetings Africa, the continent’s premier business events trade show, is set to take place from the 24th to the 26th of February at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg, Gauteng province, in partnership with the Gauteng Tourism Authority and Johannesburg Tourism Company.
Africa’s Travel Indaba will take place from the 12th to the 15th of May at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre in Durban in partnership with Durban Tourism and Tourism KwaZulu-Natal and the KwaZulu-Natal Film Commission.
Meetings Africa focuses on highlighting the African business events products and promoting closer collaboration for the continent sector’s growth. The show will again feature a dedicated educational programme that unites and builds partnerships, driving the business events sector forward. By connecting the best of the African business events industry with relevant buyers from across the globe, Meetings Africa creates an environment conducive to transacting and building quality connections.
Meetings Africa 2025 will commence with a Business Opportunity Networking Day (BONDay) on 24 February 2025, providing a platform for professionals to forge new partnerships, explore collaborative ventures, and gain invaluable insights from industry experts. This exclusive prelude sets the stage for the main event, ensuring attendees maximise their networking potential.
Under the theme, “Africa’s Success Built on Quality Connections”, Meetings Africa emphasises the importance of forging strong, meaningful relationships in driving the continent’s economic progress and industry innovation. The trade show will also provide a platform to showcase Africa’s leading and diverse business event offerings to decision-makers from key source markets worldwide.
Reflecting on Meetings Africa’s Success of 2024:
382 exhibitors representing 22 African countries displayed the diverse and dynamic nature of the continent’s tourism landscape.
371 international and local buyers were in attendance, with a total of 3,480 delegates engaged in the event, underscoring its significance in the global MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) calendar.
Over 8,150 meetings were conducted between buyers and exhibitors, highlighting the event’s role in creating substantial business opportunities.
The airline pavilion featured nine airlines, emphasising the critical role of aviation in connecting the continent.
25 SMMEs (Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises) displayed their innovative solutions, demonstrating Africa’s entrepreneurial spirit.
179 members of the media provided extensive coverage, amplifying the event’s reach and impact.
In total, 63 countries were represented.
“Meetings Africa 2025 is not just a trade show; it’s a catalyst for business success,” said Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille. “We look forward to welcoming exhibitors and buyers from our continent and from around the world to South Africa.”
“Meetings Africa 2024 has had a significant impact on South Africa’s economy, contributing R420 million to the GDP and creating over 770 jobs. The event showcased the strength of South Africa’s business events industry as a key driver of economic growth, generating R27 million in national tax revenue and providing significant business opportunities for exhibitors. Beyond economic gains, Meetings Africa emphasised sustainable practices and supported small local businesses, provided great networking opportunities for exhibitors from the rest of the continent, further elevating South Africa’s profile as an attractive and appealing destination for global conferences and events,” Minister de Lille added.
Africa’s Travel Indaba focuses on showcasing the African continent’s leisure tourism products and promoting partnerships geared towards advancing the continent’s growth. Africa’s Travel Indaba will also lead with a Business Opportunity Networking Day featuring industry and business experts and leaders sharing knowledge.
The 2024 edition of Africa’s Travel Indaba hosted 9280 registered delegates, marking an incredible 7% increase when compared to 2023. No less than 24,000 meetings were held between exhibitors and buyers. Additionally, the event featured over 1200 exhibitors who displayed an impressive array of African tourism products and experiences.
The economic activities triggered by Africa’s Travel Indaba, from event infrastructure to accommodation establishments, restaurants, and shuttle services, were significant.
The direct economic impact on the city was no less than R226 million, with a spillover effect contributing an additional R333 million. The overall contribution to the city’s GDP exceeded R500 million, indicating significant economic benefits and over 1 000 jobs created, especially for the youth.
“For Africa’s Travel Indaba we look forward to working with all our partners to showcase the city of Durban and the greater Kwa Zulu-Natal province once again and, indeed, the rest of our country. Given the continent’s wide variety of tourism products and experiences, Africa’s Travel Indaba showcases a wide variety of exhibitors and continues to be the best Pan Africa leisure global trade show for all our buyers, exhibitors, media and other stakeholders,” Minister de Lille said.
Looking forward to 2025, both Meetings Africa and Africa’s Travel Indaba, will be tailored to provide immersive experiences and provide excellent value for exhibitors, buyers and media alike.
By connecting the best of the African leisure and business events industry with relevant buyers from across the globe, both Meetings Africa and Africa’s Travel Indaba create an environment conducive to transacting and building quality connections.
Meetings Africa Dates:
24 February 2025: Business Opportunities Networking Day (BONDay)
25 – 26 February 2025: Exhibition Days
Venue: Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg
Africa’s Travel Indaba Dates:
12 May 2025: Business Opportunity Networking Day (BONDay)
Mombasa, Kenya: TUI Fly’s resumption of flights reconnects Kenya’s coastal tourism to Europe, In a significant move for Kenya’s tourism industry, TUI Fly has resumed operations to Mombasa International Airport after a six-year break. The inaugural flight was greeted with enthusiasm by local stakeholders and government officials, marking a milestone in Kenya’s efforts to re-establish direct connections with European travelers. This return is expected to be a game-changer for the region’s tourism sector, stimulating the local economy and offering new travel options to European tourists seeking to visit Mombasa’s picturesque beaches, national parks, and cultural landmarks.
The Return of TUI Fly: A Key Development for Kenyan Tourism
After its suspension of flights to Mombasa in 2018 due to various market challenges, including changing demand patterns and the global downturn in travel, TUI Fly has once again resumed service to the coastal city. Known for operating flights to popular vacation destinations, TUI Fly’s return to Mombasa is seen as a direct response to the increasing need for enhanced connectivity between Europe and Kenya. Previously, TUI Fly had established regular direct routes linking Mombasa to several key European cities, providing travelers with convenient access to the region’s renowned beaches, wildlife parks, and rich cultural experiences.
The airline’s return comes at a time when Kenya’s tourism sector is focused on rebuilding and expanding following the disruptions caused by the pandemic. TUI Fly’s presence is expected to make a significant contribution to this recovery, especially by attracting more European visitors to Kenya’s coastal region, which had seen a gap in direct international flight options since TUI Fly ceased operations.
Boosting European Tourism to Kenya
Tourism is one of the key industries driving Kenya’s economy, and the return of TUI Fly to Mombasa aligns with efforts to revive the sector. The European market is a crucial source of tourists for Kenya, particularly for the coastal city, which is known for its white sandy beaches along the Indian Ocean, the diverse marine life in its coastal waters, and national parks that are home to Africa’s famed wildlife. By re-establishing direct flight routes, the airline will help to improve the accessibility of Mombasa as a holiday destination, making it easier for European travelers to visit the region. This is particularly important as international travel is rebounding after pandemic-related restrictions, and many tourists are looking for new and safe destinations.
The resumption of services will also help alleviate some of the transportation barriers that have hindered the tourism industry since TUI Fly’s departure. It is expected that the presence of a major European carrier like TUI Fly will stimulate demand for both leisure and business travel to the region, further strengthening Kenya’s position as a key destination in East Africa.
Economic Impact and Future Prospects for Kenya’s Hospitality Sector
The renewed route between Mombasa and Europe is likely to have a ripple effect across Kenya’s hospitality and tourism industries. Increased tourism from Europe is expected to directly benefit hotels, resorts, safari lodges, and other related businesses along Kenya’s coastline. Additionally, the renewed flight connection will bolster local economies by increasing demand for services such as transport, dining, and entertainment. The wider regional economy is also set to gain from enhanced visitor spending, which can foster job creation and further investment in tourism infrastructure.
Kenya’s tourism authorities have been actively working to expand the country’s appeal to international markets by promoting its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and abundant wildlife. With TUI Fly’s return, Kenya is poised to continue attracting more tourists, particularly in the post-pandemic era, where travelers are increasingly looking for unique experiences in destinations that are both exotic and accessible.
What TUI Fly’s Return Means for Global Travelers
TUI Fly’s return to Mombasa will not only benefit the Kenyan tourism industry but will also provide European travelers with more direct options for holidaying in one of East Africa’s most scenic locations. The route will likely become popular with tourists seeking an escape to the Indian Ocean coast, where they can explore Kenya’s coastal culture, wildlife reserves, and enjoy a variety of beach activities. The availability of direct flights will make it easier for tourists to travel to Mombasa, reducing the need for layovers or connecting flights that were previously required to reach the region.
This move is also expected to drive competition among other carriers serving the region, potentially leading to improved services and additional flight options for travelers. For European tourists, the return of TUI Fly could also open the door to more budget-friendly travel opportunities to Kenya, as the airline’s presence could encourage other carriers to increase their flights to Mombasa.
The Re-emergence of Kenya as a Premier Tourism Destination
In light of the renewed connection, the Kenyan government is expected to take proactive steps in marketing the region as an ideal travel destination. The proximity of Mombasa to renowned wildlife reserves like Tsavo National Park, along with the cultural experiences available in the city, makes it an attractive option for both adventure travelers and luxury seekers alike. This emphasis on tourism development will likely inspire more investments in local infrastructure, further improving the overall travel experience in the region.
Key Takeaways:
TUI Fly’s return to Mombasa strengthens Kenya’s tourism sector by improving European connectivity.
Direct flights from major European cities will enhance access to Kenya’s coastal regions, attracting more visitors.
Tourism and hospitality industries in Kenya are expected to benefit economically from the increased influx of international travelers.
Post-pandemic recovery efforts are bolstered as direct international connections are re-established.
European travelers will have greater ease in accessing Mombasa, expanding their travel options.
The return of TUI Fly not only helps Kenya’s tourism industry but also signifies the broader trend of recovery in global travel post-pandemic. As the demand for travel to African destinations increases, Kenya stands to benefit from being a preferred destination for European tourists looking to explore new and culturally rich regions. Increased flight connections also contribute to greater global interconnectivity, making it easier for travelers from various continents to visit emerging destinations in East Africa.
Amidst the sun-kissed shores of Mombasa, Kenya, the 19th Meeting of the East African Community (EAC) Sectoral Council on Transport, Communications, and Meteorology is in full swing, with a pivotal focus on liberalizing the Upper Airspace and driving down airfares across the region.
The agenda spans discussions on the status of crucial regional initiatives encompassing railways, roads, maritime, communications, and meteorology sub-sectors.
In a momentous address during the inaugural session on Tuesday, Hon. Andrea Aguer Ariik Malueth, the EAC Deputy Secretary General overseeing Infrastructure, Productive, Social, and Political Sectors, underscored the Community’s strides towards a harmonized airspace.
The completion of Phase One marks a landmark achievement, paving the way for the interoperability of air navigation systems within the region.
Embracing the liberalization of air transport services within the EAC heralds a new era where national carriers can traverse the region with enhanced freedom.
However, despite the potential advantages of air travel in East Africa, exorbitant airfares pose a formidable barrier, with routes like Nairobi to Entebbe, Nairobi to Kigali, and Nairobi to Dar es Salaam ranking among the costliest globally per seat.
The financial turbulence of high airfares
A staggering 43% of air ticket prices in the EAC are attributed to regulatory charges, taxes, landing fees, and other levies, with regulatory fees alone accounting for up to 24% of the total cost.
The prohibitive pricing not only dissuades potential travelers but also hampers economic growth, contributing to the region’s high cost of conducting business.
Insights gleaned from a study by the African Development Bank underscore the deterrent effect of elevated ticket prices, dissuading nearly 30% of prospective air passengers in the region.
Experts advocate for the removal of tariffs to potentially reduce air transport costs to below $100 per route, fostering increased connectivity and economic vitality
Quantitative analyses reveal the transformative power of liberalization, with projections indicating a 9% reduction in average fares and a substantial 41% uptick in flight frequencies, stimulating heightened passenger demand.
The envisioned liberalization among EAC member states holds the promise of generating over 46,000 jobs and injecting a significant US$202.1 million annually into the GDP.
Hon. Ariik, standing in for EAC Secretary General Hon. Veronica Nduva, emphasizes the urgency of advancing the remaining phases to fully liberalize the air transport sector.
Acknowledging ongoing infrastructure enhancements at various airports, including international hubs in Hoima, Dodoma, Bugesera, Melchior Ndadaye, Juba, and N’djili, he champions South Sudan’s strides in aviation legislation as a model for regional progress
While applauding the momentum towards reduced airfares, Hon. Ariik advocates for broader participation in the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) to streamline intra-continental travel.
With only three regional countries currently part of SAATM, he calls upon all nations to expedite their inclusion in this pivotal initiative, poised to revolutionize air travel dynamics across the continent.
IATA released the results of its 2024 Global Passenger Survey, revealing that travelers continue to prioritize convenience and speed. For a smoother travel experience, they are eager to use biometric identification and complete some travel processes before reaching the airport.
“Passengers want flexibility and transparency when planning and booking travel, plus speed and convenience at the airport. More are embracing biometrics, digital wallets, and off-airport processes to make it happen,” said Nick Careen, IATA’s Senior Vice President of Operations, Safety, and Security.
Planning, Booking and Payment
68% said proximity to the airport was their top priority when selecting their departure airport, followed by minimizing total travel time ( 33% ) and getting the best ticket price ( 25% ).
71% said they book travel online or via a mobile app, with 53% preferring to use the airline’s website / app and only 16% preferring human interaction.
32% said they wanted to have all travel information consolidated in one place during the pre-travel process.
79% prefer to pay for travel with a credit or debit card, followed by digital wallets at 20%, and instant payment solutions, such as IATA Pay, at 7%.
Convenience was the main reason passengers chose a particular payment method ( 70% ), followed by benefits ( 39% ) and security ( 33% ).
Passengers prioritize convenience in the planning, booking, and payment phase of travel. For this convenience, they may accept some higher costs, and they are increasingly willing to use technologies, such as digital wallets. IATA’s Modern Airline Retailing initiative is helping airlines to deliver greater customer centricity based on the foundational work of New Distribution Capability and the conversion to Offers and Orders. The Airline Retailing Maturity Index supports airlines in their distribution and payment transformation.
“Technology continues to change the way people plan, book and pay for travel. Travelers expect the same conveniences when shopping for travel that they get in any other online shopping experience. That means simplicity, clarity, and with options to meet their preferences while keeping their data secure. The industry is stepping up to meet the demand for greater customer centricity through IATA’s Modern Airline Retailing initiative. Passengers will experience its positive impact progressively in the very near future,” said Muhammad Albakri, IATA’s Senior Vice President for Financial Settlement and Distribution Services.
Airport
70% said they want to reach their boarding gate in 30 minutes or less when traveling with just a carry-on; 74% expect it to take no longer than 45 minutes with a checked bag.
85% said they are willing to share immigration data i.e. passport, visa with authorities before departure to speed up airport process. And 89% are interested in a trusted traveler program to expedite security screening.
45% said immigration procedures should be completed before reaching the airport, and 36% feel the same about check-in. Additionally, 70% of passengers said they’d be more likely to check-in a bag if they could do so in advance.
46% of travelers experienced airport processes using biometric identification. The highest usage is seen at entry and exit immigration checkpoints ( 43% ). 84% of users were satisfied. And 75% prefer using biometrics over traditional passports and boarding passes.
50% said they are concerned about data protection and 39% would be more open to biometric solutions if assured of their data’s security.
IATA’s One ID initiative is helping the industry to respond to traveler desires for faster processes and less hassle on the way to their aircraft, securely powered by biometrics and digital identity.
“The clear message from travelers is that they expect to board their planes faster with technology and smarter processes beginning well before they reach the airport. And the good news is that we are making this happen. Already travelers can arrive at the airport ready to fly with admissibility checks completed. And biometrics and digital identity can deliver a paperless experience once at the airport. That’s great for passengers. Importantly, the greater efficiency will help airport infrastructure to better cope with the growth in passenger numbers, helping to make the business case for adopting these new technologies and processes even more compelling,” said Careen.
Digital solutions are preferred by younger generations
Under-25s are considerably more proactive in using technology to improve their travel but want assurances on security.
51% would choose digital wallets for payment, far above the global average of 20%.
90% expressed interest in using a smartphone with a digital wallet, passport, and loyalty cards for booking, payment, and airport navigation, surpassing the global average of 77%.
48% prefer biometrics over traditional passports and boarding passes, compared with 43% of those aged 56-75.
50% of under-25s would be more open to biometric solutions if assured of data security, versus the global average of 39%.
Free Movement of Persons is an integral part of the African integration and along with the African Passport is one of the flagship projects of Agenda 2063.
Pursuant to this goal of integration, in January 2018 the Protocol to the Treaty establishing the African Economic Community relating to free movement of persons, right of residence and right of establishment was adopted by the AU Assembly. This was followed in March 2018 with the Agreement Establishing the African Free Trade Area, the Protocol on Trade in Goods, the Protocol on Trade in Services and the Protocol on Rules and Procedures on the Settlement of Disputes.
As a follow up to this, the African Union (AU) and the Regional Economic Communities (RECs) have developed a draft joint continental strategy to accelerate the Right of Entry for the Protocol to the treaty establishing the African Economic Communities relating to the Free Movement of Persons, Right of Residence and Right of Establishment. The strategy aims to ensure that RECs and Member States popularise and promote the adopted African Passport as one of the key mechanisms through which free movement of persons will be realised.
The implementation of the Protocol will evolve through three phases namely, right of entry, right of residence and right of establishment and the introduction of the African passport adopted during the February 2019 AU Summit, will act as a major catalyst for the Protocol especially the right of entry, according to AU Commissioner for Political Affairs Ms. Minata Samate Cessouma.
33 Member States have so far signed the protocol, and 4 ratifications have been deposited by Rwanda, Niger, Mali and Sao Tome and Principe. Technical specifications of the African Passport were also developed in collaboration with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), RECs and Member States.
