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From Muscat to the Maasai: SalamAir’s first African route takes off with inaugural Nairobi flight
SalamAir, Oman’s leading low-cost airline, has officially launched its first-ever flight connecting Muscat to Nairobi, Kenya, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s expansion into Africa. The inaugural flight landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where a welcoming ceremony was attended by key dignitaries from both nations, emphasizing the route’s importance in strengthening economic, tourism, and cultural ties between Oman and Kenya. The official ceremony in Nairobi was held under the patronage of Mohamed Daghar, Principal Secretary, State Department for Transport in Kenya’s Ministry of Roads and Transport, alongside Her Excellency Nasra Salim Mohamed Al Hashmi, the Omani Ambassador to Kenya, and His Excellency Abdi Aden Korio, the Kenyan Ambassador to Oman. Boosting tourism ties between Oman and Kenya Talking about the new route, Adrian Hamilton-Manns, CEO of SalamAir, stated: "This expansion supports our vision of linking Oman with key global destinations, in alignment with Oman Vision 2040. Nairobi is a bustling economic hub with tremendous business opportunities and rich tourism experiences, and we are excited to offer passengers a convenient and affordable way to travel between the two nations.” The new Muscat-Nairobi route will cater to both business and leisure travellers, while also providing seamless onward connections from Nairobi to the GCC and the Indian subcontinent, broadening travel options for passengers in both regions. Growing network Since its launch in 2017, the carrier has rapidly expanded, now operating 13 Airbus A320 family aircraft across six domestic destinations in Oman and 37 international cities in 18 countries. The airline has been named Oman’s Most Trusted Brand for three consecutive years (2022-2024). Nairobi is expected to be the first of several destinations in East Africa as SalamAir expands its footprint across the region, offering affordable and accessible travel between the Gulf and Africa.
Hyatt makes debut in Kenya with Nairobi property
Hyatt Hotels & Resorts has officially debuted in Kenya with the grand opening of Hyatt Regency Nairobi Westlands, a five-star property designed to cater to both business and leisure travelers. The 219-room hotel, located in Nairobi’s bustling Westlands district, marks a significant milestone for the hospitality giant as it expands its footprint in Africa. Strategically positioned for convenience and adventure, the new Hyatt Regency offers travelers seamless access to Kenya’s most iconic attractions. Guests can explore Nairobi National Park, immerse themselves in history at the Nairobi National Museum, or unwind in the serene Karura Forest. For those looking for urban excitement, SARIT Shopping Centre and Westgate Mall are just moments away. The property features a mix of 147 guestrooms and suites, along with 72 fully equipped apartments. Each accommodation is designed with contemporary elegance, drawing inspiration from Africa’s rich landscapes, featuring earthy tones and warm aesthetics. Guests can enjoy modern amenities such as 65-inch smart TVs, high-speed WiFi, luxury bath products, an in-room coffee maker, a minifridge, and a dedicated workspace. Hyatt Regency Nairobi Westlands is also setting new standards for corporate and social events. The property boasts over 2,000 square meters of meeting and event space, including one of the largest ballrooms in East Africa, offering 360-degree city views. The 10 versatile meeting spaces are outfitted with state-of-the-art audio-visual technology, making them ideal for everything from boardroom discussions to large-scale conferences. Stephen Ansell, Managing Director – Middle East and Africa for Hyatt, expressed enthusiasm about the brand’s entry into Kenya. “We are thrilled to debut our first Hyatt-branded hotel in Kenya, a key milestone in our strategic expansion across Africa. Nairobi’s dynamic energy and growing tourism appeal make it an exciting destination for business and leisure travelers alike.” With this landmark opening, Hyatt Hotels & Resorts cements its commitment to growth in Africa, offering a sophisticated blend of luxury, culture, and business excellence in the heart of Nairobi.
Etihad Airways to restart flights to Nairobi
Etihad Airways will resume flights to Nairobi, Kenya, starting 15 December 2024, with seats now on sale. The airline will fly four-times a week nonstop between Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport (AUH) and Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO). Lena Havia, Etihad’s Vice-President Network and Scheduling, said: “We are pleased to resume flights between Abu Dhabi and Nairobi this winter. “We are grateful to the Kenyan and UAE authorities for the authorization to resume flights and thank our passengers eager to use this popular route for their patience.”
Etihad goes on safari next summer with direct flights to Nairobi
Etihad Airways is resuming flights to East Africa with daily flights to Nairobi set to start on 01 May, 2024.The new route connects Kenya’s capital with Etihad’s growing global network, and will help foster important cultural and economic ties between the UAE and the East African powerhouse. Antonoaldo Neves, Etihad Airways Chief Executive Officer, said: "We are thrilled to be re-starting flights to Nairobi, a dynamic and exciting city in itself and also the gateway to a Kenyan safari, a dream adventure for many travellers, offering a view of the diverse and magnificent wildlife of Africa. “Equally, we will be delighted to welcome guests from Kenya to our extraordinary home as well as offering them access to our growing global network.” The flights will restore commercial non-stop passenger connections between the two cities, and guests from Kenya will be able to connect with Etihad flights to the GCC, the US, Europe, India and South-East Asia. The link will further stimulate cross-business and trade opportunities between the UAE and the growing Kenyan economy. Nairobi has an exciting cultural scene, and is one of the major centres of modern African music. The city is also a stepping stone to enjoy Kenya’s legendary safari country, not least the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve, where lucky visitors can view ‘the big five:’ African elephants, rhinoceros, Cape buffalo, leopards and of course lions. For East African travellers, the new Nairobi route presents stimulating opportunities to explore Abu Dhabi's cultural gems and enjoy its famed hospitality. From the awe-inspiring Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the grandeur of the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the city offers an enchanting mix of modernity and tradition, all flavoured by the warmth of Emirati hospitality. Etihad will operate daily flights to Nairobi, utilising a modern Airbus A320, featuring both Business and Economy cabins as well as the airline’s award-winning service. Tickets are now available for booking on etihad.com, offering travellers the opportunity to experience the world-class service and hospitality of Etihad on this exciting new route to Nairobi. Flight schedule Flight Number Departure Airport Departure Time Arrival Airport Arrival Time Frequency Aircraft EY 767 AUH 9:05 NBO 13:15 1234567 A320 EY 768 NBO 18:10 AUH 0:20 1234567 A320
Dusit Princess Hotel Residences Nairobi opens
Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has continued its global expansion with the opening of Dusit Princess Hotel Residences Nairobi, a unique hybrid property featuring 100 spacious deluxe hotel rooms and apartments in the Kenyan capital’s cosmopolitan Westlands neighbourhood. Soft opened in March 2023 – with full inventory set to come online in the second half of the year – the new upper-midscale property is designed to meet the needs of business and leisure travellers and deliver high levels of comfort and convenience for short or extended stays in a prime location only 5km from the Central Business District. Alongside 14 deluxe hotel rooms, 30 studio apartments, and 56 one-bedroom apartments with kitchenettes, the deluxe property features a convenient grab-and-go shop, a modern Italian-inspired all-day dining outlet called The Olive Restaurant, and a stylish rooftop bar named The Aviary Lounge. Here, guests can enjoy cocktails and creative bar snacks while soaking up stunning city views. The property also boasts an ultra-modern rooftop gym, a heated swimming pool, well-equipped meeting rooms, and easy access to the numerous shopping centres and restaurants for which the Westlands neighbourhood is renowned. The Nairobi National Park – the only national park in the world within a capital city – is just a 45-minute drive from the property, and the hotel’s team is on hand to help guests arrange day trips for the chance to spot lions, buffaloes, leopards, rhinos, and other big game. “We are delighted to officially open the doors of Dusit Princess Hotel Residences Nairobi and welcome guests and residents to experience our distinctive brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality,” said the property’s General Manager, Mr Daniel Chao. “From our prime location to our spacious rooms and apartments to our vibrant restaurant and chic rooftop bar, our unique hybrid property has all the elements in place to deliver high levels of convenience, experience, and value for business and leisure travellers alike. Fully embracing the four pillars of Dusit Graciousness – Personalised Service, Locality, Well-being, and Sustainability – we look forward to bringing long-term, sustainable value to our broader community too.” Dusit’s property portfolio spans 17 countries and comprises 49 hotels operating under Dusit Hotels and Resorts and more than 300 luxury villas under Elite Havens. More than 60 Dusit Hotels and Resorts are in the pipeline worldwide. To celebrate its grand opening, Dusit Princess Hotel Residences Nairobi is offering a special room package starting at only USD 3,500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment and USD 120 per night for a deluxe room with breakfast. The offer is inclusive of all taxes and valid now through 31 May 2023.
dusitD2 Nairobi to reopen in June following January terrorist attack
dusitD2 Nairobi Thai firm Dusit International, has announced it could reopen the dusitD2 Nairobi hotel as soon as June, in an act of solidarity with the local community, following the terrorist siege in January. Located in Nairobi’s exclusive Westlands neighbourhood, the hotel is part of the 14 Riverside complex -- a commercial hub, containing restaurants, shops and offices. The complex was targeted on 15 January 2019 in an incident which claimed the lives of 21 innocent people, including four full-time Dusit employees and two contract security staff. No guests were harmed in the attack. "Spirit of determination" Demonstrating the resilience of the local community, the 14 Riverside complex has already sprung back into action with tenants and business owners returning to help beautify the area. Office buildings in 14 Riverside re-opened on 28 January with additional security measures bolstering the place. dusitD2 Nairobi, which has been temporarily closed since the incident, is located at the far end of the project in a private location away from the main entrance. Recognising the hotel’s role as a major facilitator of business in Nairobi, the management and staff of dusitD2 Nairobi are determined to reopen the hotel as a beacon to the 14 Riverside community can thrive once again. This includes enhancing the property and planning a series of community events, ahead of a tentative relaunch in June. Positive energy Michael Metaxas, general manager of dusitD2 Nairobi, said: “The spirit of determination that runs through the entire 14 Riverside community is heartening to see, and the support from everyone has been, and continues to be, incredible. This positive energy is driving us as we prepare the hotel to delight guests and visitors once more with delightful service, impressive design, and safe and comfortable surroundings for people to socialise, stay and conduct business.” "Morale is high and everyone is pulling together" Dusit International’s chief operating officer, Lim Boon Kwee, said: “While we are still deeply affected by the recent events at the 14 Riverside complex, morale is high and everyone is pulling together to create a special return for the hotel. "As ever, the safety and well-being of our guests and employees remain our priority, and we will continue to have rigorous security procedures in place that contribute to the high levels of comfort and care for which we are known worldwide.”
Qatar Airways codeshares with Kenya Airways
Qatar Airways and Kenya Airways have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), confirming the intention to enter a strategic partnership which will include a comprehensive codeshare agreement and increased flights between the East African state and Qatar Airways’ award-winning Doha hub, Hamad International Airport. The MoU signing took place today in Doha between Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer and Kenya Airways Group Managing Director and CEO, Allan Kilavuka. The partnership will see Qatar Airways introducing a third daily frequency between Doha and Nairobi in codeshare with Kenya Airways, with flights due to be available for booking over the coming days. The new offering will be complemented by the launch of Kenya Airways operated, and Qatar Airways marketed, flights between Mombasa and Doha during the coming winter season. The two airlines will also codeshare on both networks to offer seamless connections and greater choice for travellers from around the world. Additionally, both Qatar Airways and Kenya Airways will look to develop collaboration in other parts of the business, including cargo, airport and ground services, product development, loyalty programmes, procurement as well as maintenance, repair and overhaul. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “This partnership is yet another demonstration of our deepening ties with the African region. Today’s agreement – which comes as we celebrate 20 years of flying to Kenya – is coupled with our recognisable record of partnerships across the continent, most recently through our investment in Airlink. Our growing collaboration with our African counterparts ensures that Qatar Airways continues to contribute to the continent’s rapidly evolving aviation and economic ecosystem.” Kenya Airways Group Managing Director and CEO, Allan Kilavuka, said: “This partnership perfectly aligns with our airline’s robust turnaround strategy, which saw Kenya Airways’ return to profit for the first time in more than a decade earlier this year. The collaboration will also help expedite Kenya Airways’ efforts to boost tourism and air cargo activities, turning these and others into pivotal economic growth propellers for Kenya and the East Africa region.” The partnership highlights two leading airlines collaborating to bring excellence to their global community of travellers. Kenya Airways, for the fourth consecutive year, has been recognised as Africa's Leading Airline and Business Class by the World Travel Awards 2025. Over the past year, Qatar Airways has also optimised its schedule in most African destinations to improve connectivity to key destinations, including Brussels, Guangzhou, London, New York, and Washington through its award-winning hub, Hamad International Airport.
Revenue for AirAsia X in Q1 2025 rises by 3% YoY to RM940.1 million
The Company reported a revenue of RM940.1 million in 1Q25, increasing by 3% year-on-year (“YoY”) from RM908.9 million in 1Q24 driven by a 12% growth in capacity to 1.29 million seats. In line with capacity expansion, AirAsia X achieved a 12% YoY increase in passenger traffic in 1Q25, carrying 1.08 million passengers. This was driven by sustained demand across core markets and efficient capacity deployment, resulting in a robust Passenger Load Factor (“PLF”) of 83%. Ancillary revenue remained a key margin driver in 1Q25 This quarter, average base fare stood at RM550, aligning with the Company’s load-active, yield-passive strategy. Ancillary revenue remained a key margin driver in 1Q25, with ancillary revenue per passenger rising 10% YoY to RM277. This uplift, combined with a higher passenger base, drove a 24% YoY increase in total ancillary revenue to RM298.3 million. The growth reflects improved takeup rates, supported by enhanced digital personalisation and targeted product offerings that successfully maximised per-passenger spend. The Company posted a net profit of RM50.2 million, representing a 5% margin even as its cost base expanded parallel to operational growth. Cost per ASK (“CASK”) edged up marginally to 13.97 sen driven by slightly higher staffing with additional aircraft in operation and airport-related expenses. These were partially mitigated by a lower jet fuel price YoY and a reduction in aircraft lease expenses as most aircraft exited pay-by-hour arrangements since 1Q24. Japan, Australia and Kazakhstan emerged as key outperformers In 1Q25, AirAsia X expanded its Available Seat Kilometres (“ASK”) by 17% YoY to 5,878 million, strategically aligning capacity to capture peak demand during festive and holiday periods. Japan and Australia emerged as key outperformers within the network, with core routes delivering strong load factors between 85% and 90%, reflecting sustained travel demand and effective capacity optimisation in high-yield markets. AirAsia X Thailand (“TAAX”), the Company’s associate, recorded RM512.7 million in revenue and an operating profit of RM15.5 million in 1Q25. TAAX carried a total of 500,128 passengers this quarter, up 14% YoY as seat capacity increased by 23% YoY to 604,584 seats, charting a sound PLF of 83% during the quarter. The one-off effect of the hub transition from Suvarnabhumi to Don Mueang in October 2024 has stabilised, with the network now operating at peak performance. TAAX’s average fare held strong at RM833 per passenger this quarter. As of 31 March 2025, AirAsia X’s total fleet increased to 19 A330 aircraft following the induction of one additional aircraft from a third-party lessor. Of these, 17 aircraft were activated and operational. TAAX maintained a fleet of 10 A330s, supporting network recovery and growth across core markets. Fly-Thru connectivity accounts for approximately 20% of passenger traffic AirAsia X CEO, Benyamin Ismail said: “This has been a stellar quarter of delivering sustained passenger load and profitability. In February, we took delivery of one additional aircraft, and today, the Company has 18 out of its 19-aircraft fleet operational. The final aircraft is on track for reactivation by mid-year, and we are focussed on ensuring full fleet deployment to meet market demand. “Our network continues to demonstrate resilience, particularly on core routes to Japan and Australia, where load factors consistently trend around the 90% mark. Building on this momentum, we are capitalising on our first-mover advantage in Central Asia by ramping up capacity to Almaty, Kazakhstan in the second half of the year, with further expansion in the pipeline. Recently, we have announced the suspension of Nairobi, Kenya. It was difficult, but crucial for us, as the initial assumption for premises of financial support did not materialise eventually. Essentially, we are driven by disciplined network management, allowing us to redeploy capacity to higher-yielding, strategically aligned markets. “A key pillar for our business is Fly-Thru connectivity, which consistently accounts for approximately 20% of our passenger traffic, anchored by high-performing routes from Korea, Japan and Kazakhstan. Establishing seamless connectivity sets us up for a massive upside , particularly as we advance towards the proposed acquisition of Capital A Berhad’s aviation business, which includes AirAsia Berhad and AirAsia Aviation Group Limited, encompassing AirAsia Thailand, AirAsia Indonesia, AirAsia Philippines and AirAsia Cambodia. The integration will unlock immense synergies and enhance our network connectivity, ultimately elevating the enlarged group’s competitive positioning in the region and beyond. “We’re pleased to report continued double-digit growth in ancillary revenue per passenger, driven by focused personalisation and improved takeup rates. This, along with our lean cost structure and operational efficiencies, positions us for a strong 2025. We are mindful of the softer travel season in the second and third quarters, but are encouraged by the forward sales momentum. We are vigilant and prudent in the face of global geopolitical uncertainties, but are confident that we are able to stay disciplined and growth-oriented in a sustainable manner.”
AirAsia announces collaboration with beverage maker Hausboom
AirAsia teamed up with Malaysian sparkling juice brand Hausboom for a unique collaboration to create beverages inspired by various flight destinations. The collaboration brings together two homegrown names to celebrate local pride and a shared passion for connecting people. In production till December of this year, the collaboration introduces nine limited-edition Hausboom bottles, each featuring a flavour inspired by a different AirAsia destination. From Strawberry for Seoul to Roti Bakar for Kuala Lumpur, the series is a playful nod to the diversity of AirAsia’s network and the wanderlust of Malaysian consumers. Other destinations include Almaty, Phu Quoc, Sihanoukville, Xi’an, Nairobi, Melbourne, and Amritsar. The destination-themed bottles will be available at over 6,800 retail locations including 7-Eleven, KK Mart nationwide; CKS Retail, Bataras Hypermarket & Superstore and Servay Supermarket in Sabah; as well as SEN SEN Department Store and Everwin in Kuching. Each bottle features a unique QR code for entry into the ‘Sip & Win’ contest, with monthly prizes including unlimited free flights and exclusive rewards from AirAsia’s travel and lifestyle ecosystem spanning SNAP, Hotels, RIDE, Ikhlas, and more. Proudly homegrown AirAsia head of commercial Liyana Mahizzan explained that the company is a Malaysian airline that is proudly committed to building strong, homegrown partnerships that resonate with the communities it serves. Mahizzan said: “Our collaboration with Hausboom aligns perfectly with our mission to champion local innovation and to engage with the growing lifestyle consumer segment, particularly among the 21–35 age group, which makes up more than 42 percent of our customer base. Through this campaign, we are not only connecting with new audiences through bold, familiar flavours, but also giving back to our loyal guests with a chance to win unlimited flights for a year, along with exclusive prizes from SNAP, Hotels, RIDE, Ikhlas, and more.” She went on to say that the initiative is part of the airline’s broader strategy to deepen its emotional connection with consumers, unlock value across new market segments, and reinforce AirAsia’s role as more than just an airline, but a lifestyle brand that empowers Malaysian entrepreneurs and communities. Mahizzan concluded with: “We remain committed to inspiring our guests to venture beyond conventional boundaries and explore new destinations. As the airline with the most extensive network in ASEAN, our goal is to enhance their travel experiences through unique and enriching journeys, while cultivating a deeper spirit of adventure throughout the region.” For his part, Hausboom CEO Azri Zahier Azmi remarked: “As the fastest-growing beverage brand in Southeast Asia, Hausboom has always been about pushing boundaries and staying ahead of trends. In today’s fast-changing market, agility is key, and this collaboration with AirAsia is a perfect example of how we are adapting in bold, creative ways. We have laid a strong foundation by anchoring our brand around three core lifestyle pillars: Hausboom Music, Hausboom Style, and Hausboom Extreme, each connecting with diverse communities while staying true to our core audience. We are thrilled to be part of a campaign that not only showcases our best-selling drinks but also inspires our customers to dream bigger, travel further, and celebrate our local roots with pride.”
IGHC 2025 to focus on people, processes and performance
Representative Image: Savannah animals eat grass in Nairobi National Park, Africa, with Nairobi skyscrapers skyline panorama in the background The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that the 37th IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) will focus on the need to modernize operations, invest in workforce development, and strengthen coordination and collaboration to improve performance. “Ground handling is critical for the safety, efficiency and resilience of the entire aviation industry. The key word we will focus on at this year’s IGHC is “elevate”. We’ll be looking for ways to drive better performance in the ground handling sector. That means modernizing operations, investing in the workforce, and strengthening coordination and collaboration so that ground handling can support growth even more efficiently,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General. IGHC is taking place in Nairobi, Kenya, from 13 to 15 May 2025, hosted by Kenya Airways. It is the first time that the conference will be hosted on the African continent. Speakers and Sessions The President of the Republic of Kenya, His Excellency Dr. William Samoei Ruto, IATA’s Director General, Willie Walsh, and the Chief Executive Officer of Kenya Airways, Allan Kilavuka will be among the keynote speakers at the event. The conference will feature plenary sessions, specialized tracks and workshops, addressing: Ground Operations: The reliability of Ground Support Equipment (GSE), the transition to hydrogen-powered GSE, the benefits of harmonized training, and key safety focus areas for ground personnel. Baggage Operations: For the first time, a dedicated session will cover real-time baggage tracking, the transition to modern messaging standards, and the shift to electronic bag tags. Collaboration and Innovation: Discussions will explore airport–ground handler collaboration, provide insights into privatization, and examine upcoming ground handling regulations. Spotlight on Africa In recognition of the critical role that ground operations play across Africa’s growing aviation sector, H.E. Dr. William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya will attend the conference and has extended invitations to regulators and aviation authorities from across the continent. “Aviation opens a world of economic and social development opportunities, and aviation’s greatest potential is to make a real difference to the prosperity of people in Africa. Welcoming and supporting the IGHC in Kenya is an example of the importance that Kenya places on the aviation sector and the expectations that we have for it as a sector leading development in Kenya and across the continent,” said H.E. Dr. William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya. Hosting IGHC 2025 in Nairobi underscores IATA’s commitment to supporting aviation growth in Africa, in line with its broader efforts under the Focus Africa initiative. “As Africa’s aviation leader, Kenya Airways is honored to pioneer this landmark event. Hosting IGHC aligns with our mission to drive innovation, foster partnerships, and showcase Africa’s readiness to shape the future of global air travel. Hosting IGHC 2025 in Kenya reaffirms our commitment to advancing the industry—both domestically and continentally—to unlock prosperity and connectivity,” said Allan Kilavuka, CEO of Kenya Airways.
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