Indian carrier IndiGo has announced Nairobi as the first African destination in its network. From August 5, the airline has been operating daily flights from Mumbai to Kenya’s capital.
The inaugural August 5 flight departed from Mumbai at 02h10 and arrived in Nairobi at 05h40. The return flight departed Nairobi at 06h40 and arrived in Mumbai at 15h25. The times remain the same for all daily flights.
The new route, IndiGo’s 27th international destination, forms part of the airline’s international expansion strategy as it strengthens strategic ties, trade and travel routes with Kenya.
Vinay Malhotra, IndiGo Head of Global Sales, said: “We are delighted to announce the launch of direct flights between Mumbai and Nairobi, a significant step towards strengthening the bilateral ties between India and Kenya. With India emerging as Kenya's third-largest trading partner and witnessing increased investments, this new air route will further enhance our economic ties.”
According to Tourism Update, the new flights follow Kenyan travel specialist Magical Kenya’s collaborative effort to enhance Kenya’s status as an ultimate travel destination from India. The direct flights allow tourists to access Kenya’s wildlife safaris, beach getaways and cuisine, as well as its meeting, conferencing, wedding and honeymoon facilities.
John Chirchir, Acting CEO of the Kenya Tourism Board, said: “This new route represents a significant milestone in our efforts to increase the number of visitors from India, the leading market in Asia. This direct access to Nairobi, Kenya's capital city and a regional hub for business and travel, will provide leisure tourists, business visitors and investors with a seamless connection to the destination, in addition to our national carrier, Kenya Airways.”
