KLM is launching direct flights to Mombasa
The Dutch national carrier KLM, part of the Air France-KLM Group, will in October this year commence direct flights to Mombasa as the airline seeks to further strengthen its presence in East Africa.
The carrier will operate two flights a week on Thursday and Sunday flying the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner between Amsterdam and Mombasa starting October 31, with a loop to Nairobi from Mombasa.
KLM General Manager for East Africa Mr. Arthur Dieffenthaler said the flights to Mombasa will mainly target leisure travelers to the coastal city by offering a direct flying experience.
“The rising number of tourists visiting Mombasa, not just from Europe but also the rest of the world, signifies the growing interest in the unique experiences the coastal city has to offer. KLM comes in to offer a superior and memorable flying experience both for first time and regular flyers to East Africa from our hub in Amsterdam. Because of positive developments regarding the pandemic in various regions, we see an increasing demand for direct flights” said Mr. Dieffenthaler
With fares already available for booking, passengers can start booking tickets as from 26th May, 2021.
The addition of the Amsterdam-Mombasa route will see it expand its presence in the region on the back of increased tourism and trade between East African nations and the European Union. The carrier’s decision to launch flights to Mombasa also signals growing confidence in East Africa’s tourism market, one of the most competitive globally as the world is starting to slowly recover from the Covid-19 pandemic.
Economic data shows the number of international tourists arriving in Kenya through its two major airports in Nairobi and Mombasa has been rising as countries gradually ease Covid-19 restrictions.
KLM has been flying to East Africa since 1969 and on May 19th, celebrated 52 years of operating to Kenya.
“In the fifty two years we have flown to Kenya, our primary role as an airline has been to provide the all-important air connectivity between the region and the rest of the world backed by a strong global network thus promoting sustainable tourism and development. We thank Kenyans for their warm welcome and the hospitality ever since we started our operations and the strong ties we have created as we navigate the new normal together. We now look forward to experience the richness of Mombasa’’ KLM Commercial Director for East Africa Mr. Steven van Wijk said.
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