Nairobi, Kenya – July 2, 2025 – In a major boost for Kenya-UK connectivity, Kenya Airways (KQ) has officially launched direct flights from Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to London Gatwick Airport (LGW). The inaugural flight, KQ 108, took off on July 2, 2025, marking a strategic expansion of KQ’s European network and offering travelers more flexibility between the two nations.
Key Highlights of the New Route
✈ Enhanced Connectivity: Gatwick becomes KQ’s second London airport, complementing existing Heathrow flights, with 10 weekly flights total between Kenya and the UK.
Seamless Travel: The new route opens easier access to Southeast England and connects passengers to KQ’s vast African network via Nairobi.
Convenient Schedule: Flights operate 3x weekly (Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays), with overnight departures from Nairobi for optimal travel comfort.
| Flight Route | Days | Departure (Local Time) | Arrival (Local Time) |
|---|---|---|---|
| NBO → LGW (KQ 108) | Wed, Fri, Sun | 11:45 PM | 6:55 AM (Next Day) |
| LGW → NBO (KQ 109) | Mon, Thu, Sat | 12:10 PM | 11:05 PM |
Why This Matters for Kenya & Beyond
1. Boost for Tourism & Business
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Cabinet Secretary for Tourism, Rebecca Miano, emphasized the route’s role in growing visitor numbers, supporting hotels, tour operators, and Kenya’s broader travel economy.
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Allan Kilavuka, KQ CEO, highlighted benefits for trade, education, and diplomatic ties: “This isn’t just a new route—it’s a gateway for opportunity.”
2. Economic Impact
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Aviation contributes Ksh 425 billion (3.1% of Kenya’s GDP) and supports 460,000+ jobs (IATA).
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The route strengthens the Kenya-UK Economic Partnership, easing movement of goods, investments, and people.
3. Passenger Benefits
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Gatwick’s strategic location serves travelers from London’s south and southeast.
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SkyTeam Alliance access connects flyers to 1,060+ global destinations.
How to Book
Flights are now available via:
Kenya Airways’ website
Customer Service: +254 20 327 4747
✈ Travel agents & OTAs
Final Thoughts
This expansion solidifies Kenya Airways’ position as Africa’s leading carrier while unlocking new opportunities for tourism, trade, and global mobility. Whether you’re a business traveler, tourist, or diaspora member, the Nairobi-Gatwick route promises smoother, more flexible journeys.
Ready to explore? Book your ticket today and experience KQ’s award-winning service!
#KenyaAirways #FlyKQ #NairobiToGatwick #TravelKenya
(For media inquiries, contact Kenya Airways Corporate Communications: corporate.communications@kenya-airways.com.)
P.S. Need a ride to/from JKIA? Kisumu Airport Cabs offers reliable transfers across Kenya! Book now.