Kenya and its sister nation Tanzania have finally broken the impasse following the decision of the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) to suspend Kenya Airways flights from Dar es Salaam.

TCAA announced the breakthrough in a statement issued on Tuesday outlining what transpired before arriving at the decision to lift their ban.

Kenya Grants Fifth Freedom Traffic Right to Air Tanzania

The Republic of Kenya has granted the Fifth Freedom Traffic Right to Air Tanzania Company Limited for all-cargo service, as requested by the United Republic of Tanzania.

The decision, effective from January 16, 2024, comes after a series of diplomatic discussions between the two East African nations.

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This move signifies a positive step towards resolving the aviation dispute that has strained relations between Kenya and Tanzania.

Tanzania Withdraws Ban on Kenya Airways Flights

In response to Kenya's approval of Fifth Freedom Traffic Right for Air Tanzania, the United Republic of Tanzania has withdrawn its decision to suspend Kenya Airways' passenger flights between Nairobi and Dar es Salaam. 

The decision, communicated through a public notice on January 15, 2024, was set to take effect from January 22, 2024.

However, with Kenya's positive response to Tanzania's request, the ban on Kenya Airways flights has been lifted with immediate effect.

Background of the Aviation Dispute

The dispute originated from the rejection by the Republic of Kenya to grant Air Tanzania Company Limited the opportunity for all-cargo flight operations under Fifth Freedom Traffic Rights between Nairobi and third countries.

In response, the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority decided to revoke approvals for Kenya Airways to operate passenger flights between Nairobi and Dar es Salaam.

This move marked a significant escalation in the ongoing aviation disagreement between the two East African nations.

Renewed Assurances from Tanzania

The aeronautical authorities of the United Republic of Tanzania, in a statement, availed themselves of the opportunity to renew assurances to the public of their highest consideration.

This diplomatic breakthrough not only restores normalcy in aviation operations between Kenya and Tanzania but also highlights the importance of diplomatic dialogue in resolving international disputes.

In the ever-evolving dynamics of international relations, this development serves as a testament to the resilience of diplomatic efforts in overcoming challenges.

The restoration of Kenya Airways flights to Dar es Salaam reflects the commitment of both nations to fostering cooperation and understanding in the aviation sector, ultimately benefiting the citizens of Kenya and Tanzania.