Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) marked a new chapter in regional air connectivity on Tuesday evening with the arrival of Flightlink’s inaugural direct flight from Zanzibar. The milestone was celebrated in grand fashion as the aircraft received a traditional water cannon salute from the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) Aerodrome Rescue and Firefighting Services team, symbolising the official launch of the route.
The new Zanzibar–Nairobi daily service is expected to significantly enhance tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between Kenya and Tanzania. Operated by Flightlink, the service will connect JKIA to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, offering a faster and more convenient travel option for both business and leisure travellers.
Flight YS115 departed Zanzibar at 5:00 PM and touched down at JKIA at 6:30 PM. The return leg, Flight YS116, departs Nairobi at 7:30 PM and lands in Zanzibar at 9:00 PM, making the journey seamless and time-efficient.
Speaking during the launch, Flightlink’s Captain Afzal Kermeli expressed optimism about the new route’s impact. “We’re excited to give Kenyan travellers and international visitors alike a faster, easier, and more comfortable way to experience the magic of Tanzania’s coast,” said Kermeli. “This direct flight shortens travel time and opens up a new avenue for regional cooperation.”
The new route comes at a time when East Africa is seeking to deepen regional integration and boost intra-African tourism. Kenya and Tanzania share strong historical, economic, and cultural ties, and the launch of this route is seen as a strategic step in strengthening those bonds.
Tourism stakeholders have welcomed the move, noting that it will encourage more frequent travel between the two countries. The direct flight is also expected to attract more international tourists by offering convenient access to two of East Africa’s most iconic destinations Zanzibar’s idyllic beaches and Kenya’s vibrant capital city.
With daily operations now in place, Flightlink’s service between Nairobi and Zanzibar marks a significant boost for regional air travel, promising to deliver economic benefits and closer people-to-people ties across the East African region.
