Kenya Airways resumes Nairobi-Maputo route after five-year break.

Kenya Airways (KQ) is gearing up to resume direct flights to Maputo, Mozambique, in June, linking Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport with Maputo International Airport, after a five-year break.

Julius Thairu, Chief Commercial and Customer Officer at Kenya Airways, expressed the airline’s commitment to meeting the soaring demand for air travel.

“The demand for air travel is soaring, and we’re determined to meet it by expanding our reach and fostering connections between Africa’s rich cultures and thriving economies,” Thairu stated last week.

He noted that the addition of Maputo to their network strengthens ties between Kenya and Mozambique, facilitating increased trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.

The airline plans to operate three flights per week to the Southern African capital, commencing on June 14, with flights scheduled for Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

Last month, Kenya Airways posted impressive financial results, with a substantial jump in operating profit to Sh10.5 billion during the review period.

Thairu attributed this success to a significant surge in revenue, which increased by 53 per cent to Sh178.5 billion, marking the first significant growth in operating profit since 2017.

Allan Kilavuka, CEO of Kenya Airways, attributed this robust performance to the airline’s steadfast trajectory towards recovery, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Michael Joseph, Chairman of Kenya Airways’ board, hailed the results as “encouraging signs of continued recovery” within the aviation sector.

He emphasised the operational viability of the airline business and commended management’s efforts to restore profitability, which were yielding positive outcomes.

Kenya Airways faced insolvency in 2018 after an ambitious growth bid left it burdened with significant debts, necessitating taxpayer bailouts to sustain operations.

Beyond its designation as a major trade hub for southern Africa, Maputo enchants visitors with its rich tapestry of history and culture.

Portuguese colonial influences are evident in the city’s architecture, while vibrant markets and a flourishing art scene offer a glimpse into contemporary Mozambican life.  

Whether you seek relaxation on pristine beaches or exploration of fascinating museums, Maputo promises an unforgettable experience.