Incentive travel is poised for significant growth through 2026.

Incentive travel is poised for significant growth, with a new report predicting increased spending and an elevated strategic role for the sector.

Incentive travel buyers have shared that activity and per-person spending will surpass 2024 levels in the next two years. This comes as senior leadership views on incentive travel evolve, presenting a demand for incentive travel to play more of a distinct role in motivation and culture-building while also managing programmes for financial ROI.

These takeaways were derived from a survey conducted by the newly released 2024 Incentive Travel Index (ITI), a joint initiative of the Incentive Research Foundation (IRF) and Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) undertaken in partnership with Oxford Economics.

In addition to increased spending, workplace trends are also enhancing the strategic importance of incentive travel. A greater focus on retaining talented employees and maintaining a competitive hiring advantage were cited as key factors shaping incentive travel’s future.

The report also identified emerging new generations of leaders and qualifiers and a more dispersed workforce as trends that will amplify the need for incentive travel. However, with sustainability on the rise, carbon footprint concerns will likely become a central focus for businesses planning such programmes.

Disruptions ahead for incentive travel

Change is coming for the incentive travel sector – most respondents of the survey agree that younger generations of qualifiers will cause a powerful “retool” of incentive travel. Most believe that AI will be used effectively within incentive travel in the future to prepare programme materials and plan, forecast, and budget.

However, the human touch will still be imperative for incentive travel, some planners say, citing its high touch and personalised nature that may render AI ineffective.

Buyers are also looking for destinations they haven’t been to before, with regular and all-inclusive resorts also experiencing an upward trend in popularity.

Source: Meetings-Conventions-Asia

KATA Hails MKTE Tourism Expo as a Catalyst for Boosting Kenya’s 2.5 million Visitor Target.

The Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) has praised the recently concluded Magical Kenya Travel Expo (MKTE) 2024 as a significant driver in helping Kenya achieve its goal of attracting 2.5 million tourists by the end of the year.

Speaking at the event, KATA Chairperson Dr. Joseph Kithitu highlighted MKTE 2024 as a pivotal platform for marketing Africa as a top travel destination. He encouraged industry stakeholders to continue participating in future expos to tap into emerging markets and keep Kenya at the forefront of global tourism.

“Kenya is the launchpad for Africa, and MKTE is the ideal platform for marketing the continent. With 1.8 million tourists already visiting Kenya by August, we are well on track to meet our target. Ongoing marketing efforts through expos like MKTE will showcase Kenya’s unique attractions to a global audience. The prospects are promising, and we anticipate an even bigger and better market presence at MKTE 2025,” said Dr. Kithitu.

Boosting Global Exposure

Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) CEO June Chepkemei, the event host, underscored the importance of the expo in elevating Kenya’s position as a preferred destination. The expo attracted over 180 international buyers from 35 countries, along with 4,000 delegates and 417 exhibitors.

“This exceptional turnout has greatly boosted our tourism industry. International buyers experienced Kenya’s diverse offerings firsthand and established valuable partnerships with local stakeholders, positioning Kenya to attract more visitors,” said Chepkemei. She reaffirmed KTB’s commitment to providing platforms that enable Kenya’s travel trade to access global markets cost-effectively.

Collaborations and Talent Development

In addition to engaging international buyers, MKTE 2024 fostered collaboration between tourism boards across Africa, discussing strategies for repositioning the continent’s travel fairs to match globally established exhibitions.

The expo also focused on growing the industry’s talent pipeline, with representatives from 17 universities present to discuss ways to nurture young talent. Chepkemei emphasized that such partnerships are crucial for creating jobs and opportunities for youth in the sector.

New Direct Flights from Asia to Nairobi

KATA CEO Nicanor Sabula commended the strategic move by AirAsia X (AAX) to introduce direct flights connecting Kuala Lumpur to Nairobi. This initiative is expected to enhance connectivity between Asia and Africa, driving tourism growth in both regions.

“The Asia-Pacific market is becoming increasingly important for Kenya, with over 320,000 tourists visiting in 2023. This new direct connection will stimulate economic growth, create opportunities for local businesses, and further position Kenya as a key destination for global travellers, particularly from Asia,” said Sabula. The flights, set to begin on November 15, 2024, will operate four times weekly.

Expanding Kenya’s Tourism Segments

A key highlight of the expo was the launch of the Digital Nomad Work Permit and the Transit and Long Connection Travellers Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) by President William Ruto. These initiatives aim to attract digital nomads and long-haul travellers, offering them the chance to explore Kenya’s diverse attractions seamlessly.

With these innovations and ongoing efforts, Kenya’s tourism sector is poised to continue its upward trajectory, positioning the country as a global tourism powerhouse.

Air France to launch free ultra-high-speed Starlink connectivity onboard all aircraft.

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.

Source:    Future Travel Experience

Everything We Know About Kenya’s New Digital Nomad Visa.

Bryan Obala

Kata_kenya

Kenya is the latest country to announce a visa specifically for digital nomads.

The East African country’s President, William Ruto, reportedly made the announcement on October 2. According to Nation, the leader shared the exciting information at the Magical Kenya Travel Expo 2024 in the country’s capital, Nairobi. Discussing the “Digital Nomad Work Permit,” Ruto briefly outlined what traveling and expat remote workers can expect.

The Digital Nomad Work Permit will be “specifically designed to welcome global digital professionals, allowing them to live and work in Kenya while enjoying the country’s natural beauty and high-quality lifestyle,” Ruto reportedly said. “Kenya can be your home, where you and your family can experience the wonders of magical Kenya every day. All while serving clients from anywhere in the world on your digital platform.”

What Else Do We Know About Kenya’s Digital Nomad Work Permit?

Euro News reports that eligibility will require a valid passport, proof of remote work, a clean record, and evidence of accommodations in Kenya. An applicant’s annual income requirement will allegedly have to be at least $55,000. The government has not yet clarified when they will release applications, set deadlines, or determine the visa’s duration. It’s unclear if Kenya’s Digital Nomad Work Permit will lead to citizenship for applicants who want it.

Ruto revealed that a new electronic travel authorization system will be introduced for travelers passing through Nairobi, alongside the visa. Once registered via the authorization system, people will be able to leave the airport and explore Kenya’s capital during flight layovers.

The president reportedly boasted about Kenya’s booming influx of travelers and tourism in recent years. Describing the country as a “top global destination” with stunning terrains, wildlife, nightlife, and more, Ruto also highlighted the country’s “incredible diversity, with over 40 distinct cultures.”

There are currently only a few African countries that offer digital nomad visas, including Namibia, Cape Verde, and Mauritius.

Kenya Airways Joins Forces with African Airlines to Revolutionize Intra-Continental Travel and Unleash Monumental Savings for Passengers Across Africa.

KQ JFK

Bryan Obala

Kata_kenya

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.

Source:   Travel and Tour World

Kenya Airways Operates First Flight Under European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Certification.

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.

AirAsia X executives visit KATA after opening the first sales office in Africa.

Bryan Obala

Kata_kenya

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.

Dubai Calendar unveils exciting line-up of events for October 2024

Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Dubai Calendar, the city’s official event listings platform, has unveiled a diverse range of events for October 2024, showcasing thrilling sports competitions, captivating live performances, and engaging community activities. October promises a month filled with unforgettable experiences for all, including shows by global music icons and thrilling athletic performances that will have everyone on the edge of their seat. From the legendary British band Kasabian to the Grammy Award winner Calvin Harris, and the dazzling performance of Cinderella on Ice, prepare for a month filled with excitement and entertainment like never before!

Below are Dubai Calendar’s top picks of upcoming events for October:

COMMUNITY

Global Village

Date: 16 October – 11 May

Location: Global Village

About: Global Village is reopening its gates for its 29th season. Featuring 26 pavilions with 3,500 displays from countries near and far, visitors can pick up traditional handicrafts and snacks from more than 200 eateries. Highlights include mesmerising fire-breathing performances, star-studded concerts, and exhilarating stunt shows, ensuring there is something exciting for everyone.

Gault and Millau Culinary Innovators

Date: 24 – 26 October

Location: ICD Brookfield Place

About: Prepare for an extraordinary culinary experience as Dubai’s talented chefs unite for Gault&Millau’s inaugural Culinary Innovators showcase. This unique event, a first of its kind in the UAE, brings together 12 of Dubai’s most acclaimed chefs for a spectacular three-night pop-up.

SPORTS

Dubai Basketball Club

Date: 22 September – 31 May

Location: Coca-Cola Arena

About: Grab your seats as Dubai’s new basketball team begins its 2024/5 season. Get courtside as Dubai Basketball takes on reigning ABA League champions Crvena Zvezda (Red Star) from Serbia. Led by renowned Head Coach Jurica Golemac, Dubai’s roster includes players from across the world, including the United States and the Philippines.

Dubai Muscle Show

Date: 25-27 October

Location: Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai

About: Join the latest edition of the Dubai Muscle Show, the Middle East’s leading fitness and bodybuilding platform. Highlights include the Dubai Muscle Classic with the FMG International’s first women’s contest, intense boxing and Muay Thai matches, and inspiring talks with bodybuilding legends.

Dubai Active

Date: 25-27 October

Location: Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai

About: Start the Dubai Fitness Challenge with Dubai Active. Enjoy workouts with celebrity trainers, watch boxing and MMA, and explore more than 400 brands.

Cancer Awareness Cycle or Walk

Date: 26 October

Location: Meydan Cycle Track

About: Put your best foot forward for the latest edition of Cycle or Walk For Life and plan a family day out. This community event aims to bring people together to spread awareness about cancer while enjoying live entertainment by local bands, dance groups, motivational speakers, a kids’ zone and festive food stalls.

Plus500 City Half Marathon

Date: 27 October

Location: Gate Village, Dubai International Financial Centre

About: Experience stunning views at the Plus500 City Half Marathon racing through Downtown Dubai’s iconic landmarks like Burj Khalifa and Emirates Towers. Choose between 21km, 10km, or 5km routes, and enjoy a scenic run with friends and family.

Dubai Fitness Challenge

Date: 26 October – 24 November

Location: Citywide

About: Get ready for the 2024 Dubai Fitness Challenge. Complete 30 minutes of daily activity for 30 days with free classes and events in yoga, cycling, high-intensity interval training, and more. Join the fun and get fit!

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Cinderella on Ice

Date: 4-6 October

Location: Zabeel Theatre, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

About: Enjoy a dazzling performance of Cinderella on Ice with stunning skating and thrilling manoeuvres by the Imperial Ice Stars. Book your tickets now for this enchanting retelling of the classic tale.

Tamer Ashour and Elissa live

Date: 11 October

Location: Coca-Cola Arena

About: Get ready for a night of Arabic music as Lebanese sensation Elissa and Egyptian composer Tamer Ashour light up the stage at Coca-Cola Arena. Elissa, dubbed the ‘Queen of Emotions’, promises a captivating performance as she entertains fans with endless hits like Baddy Doub and Betghib Betrouh. Meanwhile, Ashour will mesmerise with favourites including Zikrayat Kaddab, Ekhtarna Leh, Thania Wahda, and Enta Ekhtart.

Umm Kulthum & The Golden Era

Date: 12-13 October

Location: Dubai Opera

About: Immerse yourself in the soul-stirring melodies of the late Egyptian singer, Umm Kulthum, in an unforgettable show at Dubai Opera. The evening promises to be a true spectacle where her celebrated performances will unfold on stage, enhanced by a live orchestra. Watch the digital and real worlds merge in an elevated ambience during this show.

Kasabian live

Date: 13 October

Location: Coca-Cola Arena

About: Get ready to rock with legendary British band Kasabian at Coca-Cola Arena. Watch them belt out their top songs such as Fire, Club Foot, and L.S.F.

L.A. Dance Project – Romeo & Juliet Suite

Date: 17-18 October

Location: Dubai Opera

About: Dance meets cinema and theatre in a captivating adaptation of Shakespeare’s iconic Romeo & Juliet. This innovative ballet brings the Bard’s tragic love story to life in a contemporary setting.

Eric Prydz HOLO live

Date: 18 October

Location: Expo City Arena

About: Swedish DJ Eric Prydz is bringing his sensational show HOLO to Dubai for the first time. This show will headline technological and musical innovation that merges music and 3D holographic projections for a one-of-a-kind experience.

Tyga live

Date: 19 October

Location: Coca-Cola Arena

About: It will be an evening filled with beats as globally-acclaimed rapper Tyga performs live at Coca-Cola Arena. The American star gained popularity for his repertoire of hits and celebrated collaborations with international names like Drake and Justin Bieber. Hear him belt out chart-topping singles like Taste, Swish, and The Motto.

Romesh Ranganathan live

Date: 25 October

Location: Coca-Cola Arena

About: Romesh Ranganathan’s 2022 show in Dubai was a sold-out success, so grab your tickets early for his upcoming performance. The stand-up comedy star gained popularity thanks to stints on numerous TV shows like The Apprentice: You’re Fired!, Play to the Whistle, and A League of Their Own.

Sophie Ellis-Bextor live

Date: 26 October

Location: Dubai Opera

About: Get ready for an evening that pops with Sophie Ellis-Bexter at Dubai Opera. The singer, songwriter and pop icon of the 2000s will perform her greatest hits including Murder on the Dance Floor and Groovejet (If This Ain’t Love).

KT Tunstall live

Date: 26 October

Location: The Tent, Bla Bla Dubai

About: Dubai fans have the chance to catch Scottish musician KT Tunstall live at Bla Bla Dubai. On the night, you can expect to hear her perform hits like Suddenly I See, Hold On, and 1000 Years.

Calvin Harris live

Date: 26 October

Location: Ushuaia Dubai Harbour Experience

About: Get a taste of Ibiza right here in Dubai as Grammy Award winner Calvin Harris marks the opening concert at Ushuaia Dubai Harbour Experience. Get ready to dance to hits like Summer, Feel So Close, and How Deep Is Your Love, while a special guest appearance by Tyson O’Brien makes it an unforgettable experience.

DJ Liu x Barasti

Date: 26 October

Location: Barasti Beach

About: It’s raining beats at Barasti as DJ Liu brings his epic set of deep house and future house music straight from Tomorrowland to Dubai. This electronic music star has been making waves in the international circuit and will now spin top tunes at the beachfront destination.

Dubai Calendar allows residents and tourists to discover all the events, festivals and experiences Dubai has to offer. For more information, please visit: www.visitdubai.com/en/whats-on/dubai-events-calendar.

-Ends-

About Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)

With the ultimate vision of making Dubai the world’s leading commercial centre, investment hub and tourism destination, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) is mandated to support the Government in positioning the emirate as a major hub for global economy and tourism, and in boosting the city’s economic and tourism competitiveness indicators, in line with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to double the size of the emirate’s economy and consolidate its position among the top three global cities over the next decade.

Under this remit, DET is driving efforts to further enhance Dubai’s diversified, innovative service-based economy to attract top global talent, deliver a world-class business environment and accelerate productivity growth. Additionally, DET is supporting Dubai’s vision to become the world’s best city to live and work in by promoting its diverse destination proposition, unique lifestyle and outstanding quality of life, overall.

DET is the principal authority for planning, supervising, developing and marketing Dubai’s business and tourism sectors. It is also responsible for licensing and classifying all types of businesses, including hotels, tour operators and travel agents. The DET portfolio includes Dubai Economic Development Corporation (DEDC), Dubai Business Licence Corporation (DBLC), Dubai Corporation for Consumer Protection and Fair Trade (DCCPFT), Dubai SME, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) and Dubai College of Tourism (DCT).

About Dubai Calendar

Dubai Calendar, the official listings platform for events in the city, is managed by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an entity of Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). A free resource online and via a dedicated mobile app, Dubai Calendar is the city’s go-to guide that allows residents and tourists to discover all the events, festivals and experiences Dubai has to offer, from arts, culture and education to food, sports and shopping. With more than 1,200 events per year, and new listings added every week, Dubai Calendar is an all-access pass to ‘what’s on’ in Dubai. For more information about events taking place across Dubai, please visit: www.visitdubai.com/en/whats-on/dubai-events-calendar.

Source:   Zawya.

Kenya introduces digital nomad work permit and visa-free travel to boost tourism

President William Ruto announced plans to attract digital nomads to Kenya during the 2024 Magical Kenya Travel Expo.

According to the Head of State, the newly implemented Digital Nomad Work Permit enables remote workers from all over the world to live and work in Kenya, enriching their lives with the country’s breathtaking scenery and vibrant culture.

The President was speaking at the Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi, where he emphasised Kenya’s growing reputation as a top global tourism destination.

He stated that by creating a welcoming environment for digital nomads, the government hopes to establish Kenya as a hub for remote work while also boosting the tourism industry.

“Digital nomads can experience the wonders of Magical Kenya every day while contributing to local economies,” President Ruto stated.

“This initiative not only enhances our appeal as a destination but also fosters a vibrant ecosystem that supports innovation and entrepreneurship.”

President Ruto also announced a visa-free policy for visitors from select countries, allowing tourists and business travellers to explore Kenya without the hassle of visa applications.

This policy aligns with Kenya’s broader strategy to welcome people from around the world, encouraging tourism and cultural exchange.

Additionally, the President introduced a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) specifically for transit passengers at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

This allows travellers with layovers to step out of the airport and explore Kenya, enhancing their travel experience and encouraging longer stays in the country. T

The eTA caters to both transit and long-connection travellers, enabling them to immerse themselves in the local culture and attractions during their time in Nairobi.

These initiatives come amid a resurgence in Kenya’s tourism sector, which generated Ksh 352 billion in revenue in 2023 from over 2 million visitors.

With an ambitious goal of attracting 5 million tourists per year by 2027, the government understands the significance of appealing to a modern audience that values work-life balance and unique travel experiences.

The Magical Kenya Travel Expo, now in its 14th year, provides an important platform for connecting local businesses with international markets and fostering partnerships that promote long-term growth in the tourism industry.

The event highlights Kenya’s distinct offerings, emphasizing its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes, which appeal to both digital nomads and travelers.

Source: Citizen

Over 30 Airlines Seek Regulator Nod for Kenya’s Airspace

Saudi Arabian Airlines, Bluebird Aviation, Jetways and the African Express Airways are among airlines seeking licenses and from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) for either domestic or international air-services.

The Authority says it has received over 30 applications from companies seeking to tap into the airline business with some airlines seeking to add new aircraft model to their fleet.

If granted a license, Bluebird Aviation will operate international scheduled air service for passengers, cargo and mail services on Arusha, Mogadishu, Entebbe, Kigali and Zanzibar routes via either Wilson or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

Jetways Airlines is seeking to be granted pass to operate domestic air service for passengers, cargo and mail on Mombasa, Ukunda, and Lodwar routes using aircraft type F50, F70 and F100 based at JKIA and Wilson Airport.

Seven other companies (SAC, Dragonfly, Lady Lori, Astral Aviation, Airvan, Flight Training Center and Northwood Agencies) are seeking variation of their existing air service licence to include additional aircraft types.

Saudi Arabian Airlines is seeking a license to operate non-scheduled air services for cargo with Nairobi connections while the Tanzania Air Services wants the same for international non-scheduled air services for passengers, cargo and mail between designated points in Kenya and Tanzania using aircraft types; BE20, B350, B190 and F406 based in Dar es salaam, Tanzania

Earlier in the year, KCAA granted approvals and variations to several air service licenses, reflecting an expansion in the mix of domestic and international operations.

Commercial Passengers

According to KCAA statistics on commercial passenger traffic, the total number of passengers handled increased by 16.8 percent from 10.1 million in 2017 to 11.8 million in 2018.

Domestic and international passengers increased by 22.5 per cent and 13.1 per cent, respectively, in 2018. International passenger arrivals increased by 13.3 per cent from 3.0 million in 2017 to 3.4 million in 2018 while international passenger departures increased by 16.7 percent from 1.8 million in 2017 to 2.1 million in 2018. Similarly, the number of international passengers in transit increased by 7.7 per cent from 1.3 million in 2017 to 1.4 million in 2018.

Cargo and Mail

The volume of commercial cargo traffic increased by 23.3 per cent from 290.8 thousand tonnes in 2017 to 358.7 thousand tonnes in 2018. Cargo handled at JKIA increased by 24.8 per cent to 340.8 thousand tonnes while that handled at MIA increased by 11.1 per cent to 4.0 thousand tonnes in 2018.

However, the volume of cargo handled in other airports decreased by 2.1 per cent from 14.2 thousand tonnes in 2017 to 13.9 thousand tonnes in 2018. The total volume of mail traffic increased by 35.8 per cent from 617.0 tonnes in 2017 to 837.6 tonnes in 2018, largely on account of a 36.2 per cent increase in the volume of mail traffic handled at JKIA.

Source:    Kenyan Wallstreet