Kenya Airways Officially Commences Direct Flights To London Gatwick, Boosting UK Connectivity

Kenya Airways (KQ) has today 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 this 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).

Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Ms Rebecca Miano, stated that 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.” She added

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.”

On her part, the 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 Ksh 425 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.” Said Ms Mbaika.

Ed Barnett MBE, Deputy High Commissioner British High Commission expressed enthusiasm stating, “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.”

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.

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.

Flights for the new Nairobi-Gatwick route are now open for booking and can be secured through Kenya Airways’ official website www.kenya-airways.com, travel agents, and online travel agents (OTAs).

Flight Schedule for Nairobi-Gatwick Route (KQ 108/109):

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