Kenya Airways (KQ) will be recommencing direct flights from Nairobi to Mogadishu, Starting from February 14, 2024,. This decision signifies the end of a three-year halt caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and is expected to strengthen the connectivity between Somalia and Kenya.
With a flight schedule of three times per week, specifically on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, Kenya Airways aims to emphasize the significance of economic collaboration between the two countries. This initiative is a result of the recently established bilateral air services agreement, which represents a positive shift in diplomatic ties and shared economic objectives.
Flight KQ362 departs Nairobi at 14:00 and arrives in Mogadishu at 15:45. A return flight, KQ363, departs Mogadishu at 16:35 and returns to Nairobi at 18:20. Flights start at USD 1050 (Sh160,751). According to Julius Thairu, Kenya Airways’ Chief Commercial and Customer Officer, resumption is consistent with the airline’s commitment to providing high-quality services and encouraging trade and investment.
“We are eager about the potential of re-establishing the link between Mogadishu and Nairobi through KQ. This move aligns with the increasing business and the growing number of air travel between Kenya and Somalia. Kenya Airways is committed to providing high-quality service for our customers as we work together to foster trade and investment for sustained growth.”
In addition to Mogadishu, KQ is becoming increasingly popular worldwide. Commencing on December 1, it has restored daily flights to New York and resumed direct flights to Bangkok, providing five weekly trips. The goal of this expansion is to make up for the losses caused by the pandemic, which resulted in fewer flights to popular locations like Johannesburg, London, and Dubai. Resuming flights to Mogadishu by Kenya Airways is a part of a bigger plan to improve connectivity and spur economic growth both inside and outside of Africa.