Kenya Airways (KQ) has announced the resumption of its daily direct flights to New York, seizing the opportunity presented by summer's anticipated surge in air travel demand.

Previously, the national carrier operated five flights per week on the US route during winter when passenger demand was relatively low.

The decision to increase flight frequencies has been driven by a substantial number of advance bookings from passengers seeking summer travel options. "We have increased our frequencies to daily on the New York route because of high demand from passengers as we approach summer," stated the airline.

This development serves as a significant boost to Kenya Airways, which has been striving to navigate its way out of a challenging financial situation.

The airline has relied on government bailouts to sustain its operations, with the Treasury providing financial assistance. However, the government recently announced its intention to cease funding the carrier.

Read More

  1. KQ suspends flights to DRC in tiff over detention of two workers in Kinshasa
  2. Diplomatic barney simmering as Kenya protests detention of two KQ staff in DRC
  3. KQ protests detention of two employees by DRC military intelligence in Kinshasa

At a time when Ethiopian Airlines, Africa's largest carrier, has expanded its flight offerings to the US by introducing a new route to Atlanta and reestablishing the New York route via Abidjan, competition on the route has intensified.

Kenya Airways' move to resume daily flights to the US underscores its determination to remain competitive and reclaim profitability. The carrier has experienced financial struggles, with its last profitable year recorded in 2012.

If successfully implemented, the government's plan to end funding for Kenya Airways could result in significant savings for taxpayers, as billions of shillings are spent annually to sustain the national carrier.

As Kenya Airways recommences its daily direct flights to New York, it aims to capitalize on the summer travel season's increased demand.

The airline's strategic decision to boost frequencies on the US route aligns with its commitment to offering convenient and reliable services to passengers, while simultaneously striving to secure its financial sustainability in a competitive aviation landscape.