In a significant boost for Kenya’s tourism and trade, the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) joined Turkish Airlines and distinguished guests at a reception dinner at Pride Inn Hotel, Mombasa, to celebrate a major aviation milestone: the inaugural direct flight on the Istanbul–Mombasa route.
This event marks the triumphant return of Turkish Airlines to Mombasa after a five-year hiatus, a move that powerfully reaffirms confidence in Kenya’s coastal region as a key aviation and economic hub.
A Historic Milestone for Moi International Airport
The Boeing 737 aircraft received a traditional water cannon salute upon its early morning touchdown at 04:20 hours, symbolizing a new chapter of air connectivity. The flight was greeted by a delegation of dignitaries, including H.E. Subutay Yüksel, the Ambassador of Turkey, and KAA Chairman Hon. Caleb Kositany.
During the celebratory dinner, the KAA Chairman expressed pride in this historic achievement, noting that Turkish Airlines’ extensive global network—spanning over 350 destinations—will be a major catalyst for Kenya’s international connectivity.
More Than Just Passengers: A Boost for Trade and Tourism
The benefits of this new route extend far beyond passenger travel. The Chairman emphasized that the service provides crucial cargo capacity, offering Kenyan exporters, particularly those in the coastal region, greater access to new global markets. Each flight will offer 8 tons of belly cargo capacity, creating enhanced opportunities for local businesses.
Mr. Abel Gogo, KAA’s Regional Airport Manager for the Coast, highlighted that Moi International Airport is ready and capable of handling even more international traffic, welcoming Turkish Airlines to join other global carriers like Ethiopian Airlines, Flydubai, and Uganda Airlines.
Strengthening Kenya’s Aviation Network
The resumption of flights aligns with the Government’s broader aviation modernization agenda. KAA’s General Manager for Marketing and Business Development, Mr. Abraham Kipruto, reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to deepening partnerships with international airlines to drive sustainable growth within Kenya’s aviation sector.
Turkish Airlines will operate three weekly flights on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, solidifying Mombasa’s position on the global travel map. It now stands alongside a vibrant mix of international scheduled and charter airlines connecting the coast to key markets across Europe and Africa.
This development is a clear signal that Kenya’s skies are more open than ever, promising enhanced travel options and economic prosperity for the nation.
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