The reintroduction of a direct China-Kenya express flight has cut travel time to just 10 hours, offering a major boost to tourism and trade between the two nations. Operated by China Southern Airlines, the flight connects Nairobi to Changsha, the capital of Hunan province, three times a week on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.
This development is not only streamlining travel but also enhancing economic and cultural exchanges. With travel time now comparable to a Mombasa-Nairobi bus ride, the express flight provides a hassle-free journey, eliminating long layovers and multiple security checks. Previously, a trip from Nairobi to China could take up to 18 hours via connecting flights through cities like Addis Ababa, Dubai, or Doha.
The impact is already being felt. The number of Chinese tourists visiting Kenya has surged, with the flights now moving up to 9,000 Chinese visitors monthly. This is expected to push tourist arrivals beyond the 92,000 recorded last year. Additionally, Kenya’s exports of flowers and avocados to China have risen following the implementation of a zero-tariff policy on African imports.
President William Ruto and Chinese President Xi Jinping have agreed to explore even more direct flight options between Nairobi and major Chinese cities such as Beijing, aiming to further boost connectivity.
Tourism remains a key pillar of China-Kenya relations. A bilateral tourism and cultural season is underway, fostering mutual learning and promoting Kenya’s rich flora and fauna to Chinese visitors. Kenya is also streamlining visa processes and training tourism staff in Mandarin to make the country more welcoming.
The express flight also enhances Kenya’s position as a regional aviation hub. Through a codeshare agreement with China Eastern Airlines, passengers can seamlessly connect to Chinese cities like Shanghai and Nanjing, and to several African capitals via Nairobi.
The strengthened air link is a tangible benefit of the Belt and Road Initiative and symbolizes deepening cooperation. As travel becomes more efficient, both nations are set to reap economic and cultural rewards from this growing partnership.
