DAR ES SALAAM — Kenya Airways and Air Tanzania have signed a formal agreement to work together in expanding regional air travel, deepening aviation cooperation across East and Southern Africa. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed on July 28 at the Johari Rotana Hotel in Dar es Salaam highlights a joint plan to improve connectivity, share technical knowledge, and strengthen airline operations across the region.
The agreement outlines areas of collaboration including training of personnel, aircraft maintenance, safety procedures, cargo handling, and repairs. Both airlines will coordinate closely to offer better service to passengers and freight clients while aiming to reduce operational costs.
“This partnership underscores our commitment to building regional capacity to support economic growth, trade, and tourism across East Africa,” said Allan Kilavuka, Group Managing Director and CEO of Kenya Airways. “By collaborating closely with Air Tanzania, we can jointly offer our passengers and cargo clients more flexible and efficient travel solutions.”
Air Tanzania Chief Executive Peter Ulanga said the agreement would help meet growing demand for regional air travel and cargo movement. “This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our efforts to expand our regional presence and better serve the growing demand for air travel in Africa,” Ulanga said. “Together with Kenya Airways, we are creating a stronger, more connected aviation landscape that will benefit our economies and our people.”
The MoU also encourages exchange of expertise between the two national carriers. It includes plans for joint innovation, technical cooperation, and harmonized cargo operations. Both airlines agreed to coordinate on maintenance and repair operations to boost aircraft service reliability.
The deal is expected to support aviation infrastructure development in the region, open new routes, and create new opportunities for trade and tourism.
The agreement comes amid rising interest in stronger regional partnerships as African carriers seek to improve performance and compete with larger international airlines. The partnership follows recent moves by the African Union to promote the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), a program designed to improve access and integration in the continent’s airspace.
As regional hubs become more interconnected, Kenya Airways and Air Tanzania are positioning themselves as key players in shaping the next phase of African aviation. The two airlines did not disclose timelines for implementation but confirmed that joint planning has already begun.
About the Author
