RwandAir has officially resumed direct flights to Mombasa after a six-year break.
In a statement on Monday, December 1, the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) said the relaunch took place today at Moi International Airport (MIA), where officials gathered to welcome the airline back to the coastal city.
"Today Moi International Airport (MIA) celebrated a landmark moment as RwandAir officially relaunched direct services to Mombasa after a six-year pause. This milestone underlines our region’s growing appeal and the strength of East African connectivity," the statement read.
KAA added that the reception ceremony was led by its Board Chairman, who highlighted the significance of the resumption.
"The colourful reception was led by KAA Chairman, Hon. Caleb Kositany, who welcomed the carrier’s return as a clear vote of confidence in MIA’s capability and in Kenya’s broader aviation network," the statement added.
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In his remarks, KAA Chairman Caleb Kositany termed the return a reaffirmation of partnership, shared vision and opportunity.
"RwandAir’s return is not just about an additional route, it is a reaffirmation of partnership, shared vision and opportunity. Mombasa’s airports are ready to support growth in tourism, trade and investment, and KAA will continue to provide the safe, efficient and world-class services our partners expect," he said.
KAA further stated that RwandAir’s top leadership attended the event and reassured travellers of the airline’s long-term plans for the Kenyan market
"From RwandAir, Chief Commercial Officer Fouad Caunhye joined the celebrations and reiterated the airline’s commitment to growing convenient, reliable services for travellers between our two countries," the statement further read.
Elsewhere, this comes weeks after Turkish Airlines resumed direct flights to Mombasa after a five-year break.
In a statement on Monday, October 27, KAA confirmed the development, celebrating it as a proud moment for the country’s aviation industry.
"Turkish Airlines officially resumes flights to Moi Intl. Airport, Mombasa after a 5-year break. The Boeing 737 landed at 0420 hrs & was welcomed with a water cannon salute - a proud moment for renewed Mombasa-Istanbul air connectivity," the statement read.
According to KAA, the airline will operate three weekly flights, offering not only passenger services but also cargo.
"Turkish Airlines will operate 3 weekly flights, with 8 tons belly cargo capacity, boosting coastal trade and exports. Turkish Airlines now joins Ethiopian Airlines, Flydubai and Uganda Airlines among scheduled international carriers flying to/from Mombasa," the statement added.
KAA also acknowledged the role of charter flights in maintaining a steady flow of tourists to the coastal city.
"Moi International Airport also welcomes charters like Condor, Neos Air, Discover Airlines, Enter Air, Smartwings, TUI Fly, HiSky & Electra Airlines connecting Mombasa to Europe. Dignitaries at the welcome event included Subutay Yüksel, Ambassador of Turkey; Hon. Caleb Kositany, KAA Chairman; and top KAA & Turkish Airlines officials," the statement concluded.
