Kenya Airways has launched a new duty-free shopping experience at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Terminal 1A, in partnership with Safari Duty Free, to improve convenience for travellers passing through its main hub.
The airline announced the launch on October 30, stating the experience will allow a purchases at 15% lower than those charged at airport shops, with customers also receiving an additional of 5% discount on all webstore purchases, with the initiative set to be effective from November 1.
In a post on X, Kenya Airways said it was introducing the service as part of efforts to improve the passenger experience.
“We’re taking inflight shopping to a whole new level! We’re live at JKIA Terminal 1A for the official launch of our new Duty-Free experience in partnership with Safari Duty Free,” Kenya Airways stated.
Kenya Airways Chief Commercial and Customer Officer Julius Thairu said the partnership was aimed at improving the passenger experience by offering greater convenience, choice and value.
Safari Duty Free Managing Director Vivek Mehra said customers would be able to make payments in Kenyan shillings, US dollars, British pounds and euros, using their cards without the transaction limits sometimes experienced during onboard purchases.
Passengers are required to place orders from 40 days before departure up to 72 hours before their scheduled flights through a mobile friendly platform that allows them to browse products, compare prices, make payments and track their purchases.
The launch is set for a five-year agreement, Safari Duty Free managing the airline’s inflight retail programme, including product selection, brand partnerships, merchandising, online operations and customer service.
However, Kenya Airways’ announcement did not specify the range of products available at the new outlet, their prices, opening hours or the eligibility requirements for shoppers.
Kenya Airways Acting Chief Operations Officer Captain Paul Njoroge said the two partners would coordinate inventory management, order fulfilment and onboard deliveries to ensure a seamless shopping experience.
The product range will include fragrances, skincare products, watches, jewellery, eyewear, electronics, children’s items and travel accessories. Passengers will also have access to Kenya Airways-branded merchandise, selected Kenyan products and gift sets.