Kenya eyes more tourists from Asia as AirAsia X makes inaugural flight Kuala Lampur Landing in JKIA: Photo courtes
On November 15, 2024, AirAsia X celebrated a significant milestone by launching its inaugural direct flight from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to Nairobi, Kenya. This historic flight, which landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), marked the airline’s first entry into the African market and established a new direct connection between Southeast Asia and East Africa.
The inaugural flight, designated D7 101, departed from Kuala Lumpur International Airport at 7:00 PM and arrived in Nairobi at 11:00 PM local time with an impressive load factor exceeding 90%. The flight carried 377 passengers, including tourists, business travelers, and students. The event was celebrated with a warm send-off from Malaysian officials, including Deputy Minister of Transport YB Datuk Haji Hasbi bin Haji Habibollah and the High Commissioner of Kenya to Malaysia, His Excellency Ekitela Moru.
AirAsia X’s CEO Benyamin Ismail highlighted the strategic importance of this route during the launch ceremony. He stated that the new connection aims to enhance tourism and business ties between Malaysia and Kenya, projecting to carry over 156,000 travelers annually. “Nairobi is the center of connections for Africa,” Ismail remarked. “This direct link will provide affordable travel options for those looking to explore both regions.”
The launch of this route is expected to significantly boost tourism in both countries. Kenyan Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano welcomed the development, noting it aligns with Kenya’s goal of increasing annual tourist arrivals to five million by 2027. “This is a significant achievement for Kenya,” Miano said. “We are opening our skies to the Asia-Pacific region, bringing more tourists and boosting our economy.”
The new route not only facilitates tourism but also strengthens trade and educational exchanges between the two nations. The Malaysian ambassador to Kenya, Ruzaini Mohamad, emphasized that this direct flight would enhance opportunities for business delegations from Malaysia visiting Kenya. In fact, shortly after the inaugural flight, several Malaysian tech companies and coffee distributors are scheduled to explore opportunities within Kenya’s technology and agricultural sectors.
Nairobi is renowned as the “safari capital of the world,” offering unique wildlife experiences within city limits. Tourists can explore Nairobi National Park, home to diverse species including lions and giraffes, while also engaging with vibrant local culture through its markets and culinary offerings. The city serves as a gateway for travelers heading to iconic destinations like the Masai Mara during the Great Migration or seeking to witness rare species such as the nearly extinct Northern White Rhino.
As part of its promotional strategy for this new route, AirAsia X is offering competitive fares starting from RM471 (approximately USD100) for one-way travel between Kuala Lumpur and Nairobi. This pricing strategy aims to attract a diverse range of travelers from various countries including Australia, Japan, and China.
AirAsia X plans to operate this route four times weekly—on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays—providing essential connectivity for passengers looking to explore both regions affordably. The airline’s expansion into Africa reflects its broader vision of establishing Kuala Lumpur as a global low-cost carrier hub while enhancing accessibility between underserved destinations.
Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A (AirAsia’s parent company), expressed enthusiasm about bridging Malaysia with Kenya through this new route. He noted that it not only strengthens tourism but also promotes trade opportunities between Asia and Africa.
As AirAsia X embarks on this new chapter in its journey, it aims to stimulate air travel while enriching cultural exchanges between Malaysia and Kenya. This expansion is expected to open doors for more travelers eager to experience the diverse landscapes and rich heritage that both countries offer.
The inaugural flight from Kuala Lumpur to Nairobi marks a transformative moment for AirAsia X as it ventures into Africa. With its commitment to providing affordable connectivity and fostering cultural exchange, this new route is set to enhance tourism and economic ties between Southeast Asia and East Africa. As both nations prepare for increased interactions in tourism, trade, and education, this direct connection promises exciting opportunities for travelers seeking adventure in one of Africa’s most vibrant capitals.
