Kenya Airways (KQ) marked a significant milestone in its expansion strategy with the official launch of direct flights from Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to London’s Gatwick Airport (LGW).
The highly anticipated inaugural flight, KQ 108, departed Nairobi last evening at 23:45 EAT, signifying a new era of enhanced connectivity between Kenya and the United Kingdom.
This strategic addition increases Kenya Airways’ London frequency to 10 weekly flights, offering passengers unparalleled choice and convenience for travel to and from the UK.
Gatwick Airport now serves as Kenya Airways’ second entry point into London, complementing the existing services to Heathrow Airport (LHR).
Speaking at the launch event, Mr. Allan Kilavuka, Kenya Airways Group Managing Director and CEO, expressed his enthusiasm for the new route.
“This inaugural flight to Gatwick is not just about adding a new destination; it’s about opening more doors for trade, tourism, education, and strengthening the vital connections between Kenya and the UK.”
Tourism Cabinet Secretary (CS) Rebecca Miano, said the Nairobi-Gatwick service will enable Kenya to significantly grow visitor numbers, diversify its tourism products, and scale up multi-destination travel across the country.
“These developments will deliver tangible benefits to our hoteliers, tour operators, and entrepreneurs in the broader travel ecosystem across the country. The ripple effects will be felt in employment, income generation, and in the continued diversification of our tourism economy.” She said.
“More importantly, it breathes life into the Kenya-UK Economic Partnership Agreement by enhancing the mobility of goods, services, investments, and people, thereby fostering stronger diplomatic ties between our nations.”
Permanent Secretary for the State Department for Aviation and Aerospace Development, Ms Teresia Mbaika, commended Kenya Airways for its contribution to Kenya’s and Africa’s prosperity.
“According to a recent report by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the aviation sector currently contributes Ksh425 billion to our national GDP, representing 3.1% of our economy and supporting approximately 460,000 jobs both directly and indirectly. These statistics represent livelihoods, opportunities, and national progress. Through its operations, Kenya Airways facilitates the export of agricultural produce, enables international business linkages, attracts investment, and promotes tourism by offering seamless connections between Kenya and key global destinations.” Mbaika said.
Also Read: Kenya Airways Reduces Fares for Flights to 13 Countries by 20%
The new Gatwick service will operate three times a week on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, with flights departing Nairobi at night.
This schedule is designed to seamlessly integrate with and enhance the existing London services.
How UK Will Benefit
Ed Barnett MBE, Deputy High Commissioner British High Commission expressed enthusiasm about the new routes.
Barnett said the agreement between the UK and Kenya aims at growing the two economies, creating jobs, boosting science and technology ties and protecting people and the planet.
“We warmly welcome Kenya Airways’ new direct service to Gatwick. This increased connectivity will undoubtedly foster deeper bilateral ties, boost economic opportunities for both nations, and make it even easier for people to travel, study, and conduct business between the UK and Kenya. It’s a fantastic development for our enduring partnership,” he said.
Gatwick Airport Location
Gatwick Airport, located 47.5 kilometers south of Central London, offers a convenient gateway for travelers from the Southeast and South of England.
Passengers flying from Gatwick will benefit from seamless connections to Kenya Airways’ extensive network via its Nairobi hub, ensuring a smooth and integrated travel experience to destinations across Africa and beyond.
Also Read: Kenya Airways Named Africa’s Leading Airline at 2025 World Travel Awards
Kenya Airways Partnership with Qatar Airways
This comes a day after Kenya Airways signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Qatar Airways.
The partnership includes a comprehensive codeshare agreement and increased flights between Kenya and Qatar Airways’ hub at Hamad International Airport in Doha.
Qatar Airways will introduce a third daily flight between Doha and Nairobi, operating under a codeshare with Kenya Airways. Booking options will be available soon.
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