Passengers on the inaugural flight included travellers from China, Japan, the Philippines, Singapore, and Australia, underscoring the route’s potential to attract a diverse range of visitors.
On Friday night, November 15, Capital A Berhad, operating as AirAsia, a Malaysian multinational low-cost airline, completed its inaugural flight to Nairobi, Kenya, touching down at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) which was abuzz with excitement.
The flight which was carrying 377 passengers, inclusive of tourists, businesspeople and students, as well as crew members, marks a significant milestone in enhancing connectivity between Kenya and Malaysia and seeks to bolster both the aviation and tourism sectors in both countries. It also aims to enhance trade, tourism, and investment opportunities between Kenya and Asia-Pacific countries.
Passengers on the inaugural flight included travellers from China, Japan, the Philippines, Singapore, and Australia, underscoring the route’s potential to attract a diverse range of visitors.
The reception ceremony was graced by the Cabinet Secretary for Tourism, Rebecca Miano, who warmly welcomed the guests. She described the milestone as a boost to the tourism and transport sectors, aligning with Kenya’s strategy to grow tourist arrivals to five million annually by 2027.
“This is a significant achievement for Kenya. We are opening our skies to the Asia-Pacific region, bringing more tourists and boosting our economy. With over 360 passengers on this maiden flight, we are well on track to achieving our tourism targets,” Miano remarked.
Cabinet Secretary (CS) Rebecca Miano posing with a tourist at the arrival of the inaugural Air Asia flight to Nairobi on November 15, 2024. /KENYA AIRPORTS AUTHORITY
AAX as the first low-cost carrier from Asia to establish a direct air link to the Kenyan capital, demonstrates the airline’s unwavering commitment to expanding its connectivity following Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA)’s recognition as one of the top global aviation mega hubs.
The new route is aimed at fostering greater cultural exchange and boosting tourism whilst providing an important link for business and trade between Southeast Asia and East Africa. It also supports the airline’s vision to be the leading industry player in connecting underserved destinations with great value fares across the globe.
AirAsia’s presence at JKIA is expected to attract more visitors eager to explore Kenya’s rich culture and stunning landscapes. Its arrival also marks a new era of affordable air travel. With its vast network and competitive fares, this low-cost carrier is set to revolutionize the way Kenyans travel.
One of the most exciting benefits is the opportunity to explore new destinations. AirAsia’s extensive network provides access to 35 new destinations across 12 countries, allowing one to cater to a wider range of traveller preferences.
Passengers are spoilt for choice between the vibrant cities of Southeast Asia, the stunning beaches of Australia, the cultural richness of Hong Kong and the business acumen of Singapore, all of which the airline accesses. The direct eight-and-a-half-hour flight significantly reduces travel time, which previously required connecting flights taking up to 19 hours. AirAsia X will operate the route four times weekly, with plans to increase frequency based on demand.
Furthermore, the route is expected to attract delegations from Malaysia to Kenya. In the coming week, 12 Malaysian tech companies and 17 coffee distributors are set to visit Kenya, exploring opportunities in technology and coffee value chains.
High Commissioner of Kenya to Malaysia, Ekitela Moru, welcomed the new route, stating, “This new direct connection between Kuala Lumpur and Nairobi presents a tremendous opportunity for growth in tourism, trade, educational exchanges and people-to-people ties between our two counties.
“Kenya has always been a prime destination for travellers, and now with affordable connectivity, I am confident that this route will further boost bilateral ties and promote Kenya’s rich heritage and natural beauty. As the heartbeat of Africa and the only capital with a national park, Nairobi offers limitless opportunities for wildlife encounters and nature exploration,” he added.
In 2025, Kenya and Malaysia will celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations, a fruitful partnership that has flourished across various sectors, including trade & investment, education, tourism, and cultural exchanges. Moru expressed a strong belief that this collaboration will generate new opportunities and play a key role in driving the economic growth of both countries.
AirAsia X CEO, Benyamin Ismail on his part remarked that the airline has come a long way since its journey began nearly 17 years ago and that celebrating its direct flights to Nairobi with an almost 90 per cent load factor showcases its dedication to our mission of providing affordable connectivity across the globe.
“Inspiring travellers to fulfil their wanderlust by exploring some of the world’s most stunning destinations. Venturing into Africa has always been a dream of ours, and AirAsia X has been on a steady pursuit to enable more accessible and affordable worldwide air connectivity,” Ismail commented, adding that AAX would soon embark into a new era for the airline group upon the acquisition of Capital A’s airline businesses, with more exciting endeavours ahead.
“As we continue to expand our network across the seas and cement our presence in Africa, we are excited about the future. We are confident that our entry into Nairobi will serve to not only stimulate air travel but also enhance tourism between both countries and foster closer ties regionally. Similarly, Asean countries are on the bucket list of many travellers and adventure seekers, and we welcome our guests from Africa to explore the beautiful region via Kuala Lumpur, thanks to our seamless Fly-Thru options which provide a gateway to the larger Asian region,” he continued.
About Air Asia
AirAsia has maintained its position as the world’s leading low-cost airline for an unprecedented 15 consecutive years, winning the prestigious Skytrax World Airline Award in June 2024. Beyond its financial success, AirAsia has been a pioneer in environmental sustainability and affordable travel and travellers can connect to Australia for up to 40 per cent less than traditional flights while enjoying flight times that are over 30 per cent shorter.
Tourists disembarking from the inaugural Air Asia flight to Nairobi on November 15, 2024. /KENYA AIRPORTS AUTHORITY
What Aircraft Will Be Used?
Direct flights to Kuala Lumpur and beyond will be operated by an Airbus A330, the aircraft which was treated to a water salute upon arrival at JKIA. This is a symbolic tradition that involves an aeroplane flying under an arch of water created by fire engines, reserved for special occasions, for instance, an airline arriving at a destination for the first time.
Defying expectations, this low-cost carrier offers a premium experience, including all cabin classes typically found on full-service airlines, even flatbed seats.