Kenya Airways has today flagged off its first commercial passenger flight from Nairobi to Mombasa and Kisumu as the national carrier resumed its domestic flight services.
This follows the lifting of the restriction of movement in and out of Nairobi and Mombasa counties as directed by
H.E President Uhuru Kenyatta.
KQ had shut down operations for more than three months(99 days) due to the rapid spread of Covid-19 in the country which resulted in the government imposing a cessation of movement in and out of some counties.
The airline will fly two times daily to the coastal city of Mombasa and once daily to the lakeside city of Kisumu as it continues to review the option of increasing frequencies as demand picks. Commenting on this, Allan Kilavuka, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Kenya Airways said that the airline’s utmost priority continues to be the health and safety of the passengers, crew, and staff.
While on board the aircraft, customers will be required to adhere to the safety measures and protocols in place. The airline will continuously review the protocols in place and update these where necessary to continue being ahead of the curve when it comes to safety.
“I would like to assure the public that Kenya Airports Authority has put in place the recommended health and safety protocols and we are ready to reconnect with our airports users.” Alex Gitari, Ag. Managing Director, Kenya Airports Authority stated. “These protocols will be evaluated and updated whenever necessary. Accordingly, we request passengers and airport users to familiarize themselves and strictly observe the new protocols to safeguard the health and safety of all airport users” added Mr Kivuluka.
The opening up of the country and resumption of domestic flights will contribute towards the recovery of Kenya’s economy, which is reeling from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The resumption of domestic flights will add to the revival of domestic tourism that has recorded an all-time low. We will call upon Kenyans to take up opportunities to step out of their homes for a breath of fresh air and experiential get away from their homes” said Betty Radier, Chief Executive Officer – Kenya Tourism Board
Kenya Airways, a member of the Sky Team Alliance, is a leading African airline flying to 54 destinations worldwide, 41 of which are in Africa and transports over four million passengers annually. It continues to modernize its fleet with its 34 aircrafts being amongst the youngest in Africa. This includes its flagship B787 Dreamliner aircraft
