Mombasa, Kenya's idyllic coastal paradise, witnessed a significant development on Wednesday as Flydubai, the Dubai-based carrier, inaugurated its direct flight service from Dubai.

This strategic move marks the culmination of an eight-year journey, promising to reshape the landscape of air travel between the two dynamic destinations.

To receive Flydubai on its maiden touchdown at Mombasa's Moi International Airport was Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen who noted the impact the fresh development is expected to have on the coastal region.

"This afternoon, I was pleased to receive the first of flyDubai's direct flights to Mombasa, at the Moi International Airport, Mombasa," Murkomen said.

"The launch of this route is monumental for Kenya’s aviation sector and the people of the Coast region since it will increase tourist arrivals to Mombasa from across flyDubai networks leading to the growth of the hospitality and tourism sector, creation of jobs directly and indirectly, and the revitalisation of the economies of the City of Mombasa and the region at large."

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Accompanying Murkomen was Tourism CS Alfred Mutua who also said the move was a significant milestone in both aviation and tourism as it opened a lifeline to the coastal tourism sector.

"This direct flight from the United Arab Emirates to Mombasa, operating four weekly flights, marks a significant milestone in aviation and tourism. It serves as a vital link, injecting life and vitality into the coastal tourism sector," Mutua said.

Other dignitaries present at the event included Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir and the Chairman Tourism Board  Francis Gichaba.

Flydubai's Boeing 737, a familiar symbol of Dubai's aviation prowess, now graces Mombasa's Moi International Airport four times a week.

Passengers departing from Terminal 3 in Dubai can now enjoy a seamless journey to the sun-kissed shores of Kenya, with competitive fares starting from AED 846 (Sh37,000), mirroring Kenya Airways' economy-class offerings.

Adding further value to the proposition is Flydubai's planned codeshare partnership with Emirates, another Dubai aviation heavyweight.

This collaboration opens up a world of possibilities, offering passengers seamless connections to a multitude of destinations beyond Dubai, positioning it as a key gateway to Africa and beyond.

For Mombasa, this new chapter holds immense potential.

Increased tourist influx promises to revitalize the local economy, invigorate the hospitality sector, and generate new employment opportunities.

The city's natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and diverse wildlife reserves are poised to welcome a surge of travellers eager to experience the magic of Kenya.

Flydubai's entry into the fray has undoubtedly intensified competition in the Mombasa air travel market.

Kenya Airways, the established player, now faces a formidable competitor, potentially leading to a price war that benefits travellers.

Whether you're a seasoned business traveller or a leisure seeker, this new era of air travel to Mombasa presents exciting possibilities.