Skyward Express has launched a new direct flight connecting Mombasa to Dar es Salaam in Tanzania.
This comes a month after the airline introduced a similar service from Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to Dar es Salaam’s Julius Nyerere International Airport.
The airline is strategically positioning itself to take advantage of the growing trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between the two countries.
During the launch at Moi International Airport in Mombasa, Governor Abdulswammad Nassir, accompanied by Kenya Airports Authority Chairman Caleb Kositany, underscored the significance of the new route in reducing both travel time and costs.
Previously, passengers had to fly via Nairobi to reach Dar es Salaam, which added several hours to their journey.
Governor Nassir emphasized that the direct flight would not only save time but also lower travel expenses, making the route more accessible to businesses, tourists, and local travellers.
“This new connection improves efficiency, saving time and reducing costs, and will open up greater opportunities for businesses and tourists,” said Nassir.
He also discussed the broader implications of improved air connectivity, suggesting that an open skies policy could link Mombasa to over 300 cities worldwide, boosting tourism and contributing significantly to Kenya’s GDP by attracting more international travellers.
Nassir called on policymakers to consider implementing tax incentives and other measures to support local airlines, helping them remain competitive in the global market.
Kositany praised Skyward Express for its commitment to bridging regional divides and lauded the airline’s efforts as an essential part of Kenya’s Vision 2030 objectives.
Captain Mohammed Abdi, Chairman of Skyward Express, reflected on the airline’s development, recalling that the company’s first flight to Mombasa from Wilson Airport occurred eight years ago.
“Our goal has always been to deliver an exceptional experience, cutting flight times to Mombasa to under an hour—a distinction that sets us apart from others,” he said.