Kenya Airways in strategic interline partnership talks with Nigerian carrier

…Increases capacity by 21%, raises frequencies to ten on Lagos route

The national airline of Kenya, Kenya Airways is in discussions for a strategic partnership and Special Prorate Agreement (SPA) with a Nigerian carrier (name withheld).

While not mentioning the name of the carrier, there are indications that the carrier in question is one of the airlines under the Assets Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) Receivership.

The collaboration according to the airline aims to enhance domestic and regional connectivity, providing seamless travel options for passengers within Nigeria and beyond.

Regional Manager, America and West Africa for the airline, Ngamau Stephen told journalists in Lagos stated that the interline agreement is not restricted to the particular Nigerian airline between it and the Nigerian carrier but other willing carriers to feed into its network.

As part of its commitment to better serve its customers, he noted that Kenya Airways had increased its flight frequency to Lagos from seven to ten weekly in 2024 that translates to 21% capacity increase.

In summary, the airline increased its capacity by 100, 000 between 2023 and 2024; an impressive record by all standards.

The company currently operates flights to 44 destinations globally, reinforcing its presence as a leading African carrier.

As a member of SkyTeam alliance, it offers seamless connectivity to numerous international destinations and  ensuring passengers enjoy a world-class travel experience.

The enhancement he reiterated that this enhancement provides greater flexibility and convenience for travellers, reinforcing their dedication to the Nigerian market.

He highlighted the historical significance of Lagos in Kenya Airways network, explaining that it commenced operations to Lagos in 1998, marking a significant milestone in its expansion within West Africa.

“Over the past 27 years, Kenya Airways has continuously served this key route, with the only exception being during the global pandemic. Lagos remains a strategic and vital destination for Kenya Airways, playing a crucial role in connecting Nigeria to East Africa and beyond”.

“We appreciate the concerted efforts of the Nigerian government in facilitating the repatriation of airline funds. The government’s commitment to resolving key challenges in the aviation sector fosters a conducive environment for airlines to thrive. We look forward to leveraging this positive momentum to expand our operations and enhance service delivery”, he added.

Stephen hinted that the carrier’s joint venture with South African Airways is a testament to its commitment to fostering seamless travel across the continent, adding, “We remain steadfast in our mission to enhance intra-African connectivity.

“We actively support initiatives such as the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aim to promote borderless travel and economic integration within Africa”.

The airline chief announced the airline’s Nairobi-Gatwick route as its second gateway to the United Kingdom after Heathrow.

This expansion according to him enhances its service offering, providing passengers with more travel options between Africa and the UK while complementing its existing operations at London Heathrow.

He lauded the Kenyan government for implementing a progressive visa waiver policy for most African countries including Nigeria.

This move he further stated strengthens regional integration and fosters smother travel within Africa, in line with its vision for a borderless continent.

Kenya will allow citizens of nearly all African countries to visit without needing prior authorisation, according to a new directive by the government.

Several African countries have tried to ease travel requirements for visitors from elsewhere on the continent in recent years, with studies showing it is often easier for citizens of Western countries to visit.

Under the updated system, citizens of most African countries will be allowed to enter Kenya and stay ETA-free for up to two months.

Wole Shadare