A diplomatic standoff between Kenya and Zambia has been resolved, paving the way for Zambia Airways to operate flights into Nairobi.

The decision comes after weeks of tension and threats of flight suspensions by both countries.

In a joint statement released on Saturday, the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) and the Zambia Civil Aviation Authority (ZCAA) announced that they had reached an agreement on the terms and conditions under which Zambia Airways would be allowed to operate flights into Nairobi.

"Following the notice to suspend Kenya Airways flights into Zambia, the Kenyan authorities have resolved to allow Zambia Airways (2014) Limited to fly into that country," the statement read.

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The agreement addresses concerns raised by Kenya regarding the safety and operational standards of Zambia Airways' aircraft and crew.

The resolution of the dispute has been welcomed by both governments.

Zambia's Minister of Transport and Logistics, Hon. Eng. Museba Frank Tayali, described the development as a "victory for regional cooperation."

He praised the ZCAA for its professionalism in handling the matter and expressed his hope that the agreement would strengthen ties between the two countries.

Earlier this month, the dispute escalated when Zambia's Civil Aviation Authority issued a notice suspending Kenya Airways flights to Zambia in retaliation for Kenya's refusal to grant Zambia Airways permission to fly into Nairobi.

The move sparked concerns among travellers and businesses, as it threatened to disrupt trade and tourism between the two countries.

"Considering the lack of response and reciprocity on the matter of Zambia Airways (2014) Limited flights into Nairobi- Kenya, I regret to inform you that all Kenya Airways flights into Zambia are hereby suspended with effect from time 21:59 Universal Coordinated Time (UTC) on 8th October, 2024," the notice read.

However, Kenya Airways dismissed the threat, assuring its customers that flights would continue to operate as scheduled.

In a statement, the airline attributed the dispute to ongoing discussions between the two aviation regulators and apologized for any inconvenience caused.

"We are aware of a letter by the Zambia Civil Aviation Authority to the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority," KQ said.

"Following discussions between the two regulators, We would like to assure our customers that our flights into and out of Zambia will continue to operate per schedule."

The decision to allow Zambia Airways to fly into Nairobi is expected to boost tourism and trade between Kenya and Zambia.

It will also provide more options for travellers and businesses seeking to connect to the region.

Additionally, the resolution of the dispute could serve as a model for other countries in the region seeking to resolve aviation-related disputes through diplomacy and cooperation.