Keypoints:
- Qatar adds third Nairobi flight
- Mombasa–Doha direct flights coming
- Airlines to partner on cargo, loyalty, MRO
QATAR Airways and Kenya Airways have signed a wide-ranging strategic partnership aimed at strengthening air connectivity between the Middle East and East Africa, while opening new opportunities for trade, tourism, and cargo development.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed in Doha by Qatar Airways Group CEO Engr. Badr Mohammed Al‑Meer and Kenya Airways CEO Allan Kilavuka on July 1, will introduce a third daily Qatar Airways flight to Nairobi and launch new direct Kenya Airways flights between Mombasa and Doha.
Seamless travel, deeper integration
The agreement includes a comprehensive codeshare deal, giving passengers broader access to global destinations via Qatar Airways’ award-winning hub at Hamad International Airport. Flights on the new codeshare routes will be available for booking in the coming days.
Qatar Airways CEO Al‑Meer hailed the move as a continuation of the airline’s long-standing commitment to the continent.
‘This partnership is yet another demonstration of our deepening ties with the African region,’ he said.
‘As we mark 20 years of flying to Kenya, this agreement strengthens our impact in Africa’s aviation and economic transformation.’
Kilavuka echoed the sentiment, framing the deal as a core part of Kenya Airways’ turnaround strategy after its return to profitability this year.
‘It will support cargo and tourism growth while positioning Kenya Airways as a regional economic driver,’ he said.
Beyond passengers: logistics, loyalty and maintenance
The two carriers plan to deepen cooperation in cargo handling, airport services, loyalty programmes, product development, procurement, and maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO). The broader commercial alignment aims to boost efficiency, improve customer experience and create new jobs in aviation services.
Qatar Airways, recently named World’s Best Airline 2025 by Skytrax, serves 30 cities in Africa with over 170 weekly flights, and has been fine-tuning schedules across the continent to improve connections to destinations including London, Brussels, Guangzhou, New York and Washington.
Kenya Airways, meanwhile, holds the title of Africa’s Leading Airline 2025 and continues to grow its global network from Nairobi and Mombasa.
Strategic alignment in Africa’s aviation future
The partnership further positions Kenya as a regional aviation hub and gateway to East Africa. The new Mombasa–Doha flights, launching during the 2025 winter season, will cater to both leisure travellers and growing cargo needs.
‘Our collaboration reflects a shared vision to connect Africa more effectively with the world,’ said Kilavuka.
‘Together, we’re building corridors for trade, tourism and transformation.’
