Turkish Airlines has officially resumed direct flights to Kenya’s coastal city of Mombasa after a five-year hiatus, marking a significant boost for the country’s tourism and trade sectors.
The maiden flight landed at Moi International Airport on Monday morning, where it was welcomed with a traditional water cannon salute. The resumption, which began on October 26, will see the airline operate three weekly flights between Istanbul and Mombasa, each with a belly cargo capacity of eight tons.
The return of the Turkish national carrier is expected to strengthen air connectivity between Kenya and Türkiye, enhancing business ties, cargo movement, and tourism along the coast. With Mombasa being one of East Africa’s most popular tourist destinations, the direct link is set to attract more European and Asian visitors eager to explore its palm-lined beaches, coral reefs, and cultural heritage.
Dignitaries attending the welcome ceremony included Turkey’s Ambassador Subutay Yüksel, Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) Chairman Caleb Kositany, and senior officials from both KAA and Turkish Airlines. Speaking at the event, officials lauded the development as a major milestone in Kenya’s efforts to expand international air access and promote coastal tourism.
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir earlier announced the return of the flights following discussions with Turkish Airlines General Manager Oguzcan Yerli. He described the move as a “major win” for Mombasa’s tourism and logistics sectors, emphasizing the county’s commitment to building global partnerships that create economic opportunities.
Turkish Airlines, the flag carrier of Türkiye, currently operates scheduled services to 352 destinations worldwide, including 131 countries across Europe, Asia, Africa, Oceania, and the Americas. The airline boasts one of the largest international networks and an extensive cargo division, Turkish Cargo, which serves 82 destinations globally.
The flight from Istanbul Airport to Moi International Airport takes approximately seven hours and fifteen minutes, covering a distance of 3,221 miles. The resumed route underscores Turkish Airlines’ strategic focus on expanding its African footprint and connecting key economic and tourism hubs.
With this renewed connection, Mombasa is once again open to global travelers and traders, reaffirming its position as a gateway to East Africa’s coast.
