This archive report was first published on 2 December 2019.
December 2, 2019, marked a significant milestone in the history of air travel between Kenya and India as Air India resumed direct flights between Mumbai and Nairobi after a 10-year absence.
According to Dr. Betty Radier, Chief Executive Officer of the Kenya Tourist Board, the return of Air India presents a big opportunity for the two countries that have shared trade and economic ties for many years.
"Air India will be instrumental in increasing uptake from both Tier I and II city markets of Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Pune, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, and others, utilizing its existing domestic infrastructure network, market knowledge, and presence," Dr. Radier said.
She added that the airline's return would help promote tourism, trade, improve relationships, and create opportunities between the two countries.
Kenya has been a significant tourist destination for Indians, with arrivals from India growing by 51.9% in 2018 to reach 125,032. The return of Air India adds to the existing connectivity by KQ and other airlines flying into Kenya, further enhancing accessibility to the country.
Dr. Radier noted that India has 75 million passport holders, presenting a great opportunity for Kenya to tap into the arrival of Air India, especially during peak travel seasons.
She also highlighted the presence of a large Indian community in Kenya, which forms the 44th tribe, making tourists from India feel right at home.
