Kenya Airways Launches Gatwick Flights, Signs Major Deal with Qatar Airways
Kenya Airways has launched direct flights to London Gatwick and signed a strategic agreement with Qatar Airways, expanding its global network and strengthening Kenya’s position in international aviation.
The inaugural flight to Gatwick, announced this week, marks the airline’s second UK destination, increasing its UK service to ten weekly flights. The new route is expected to boost trade, tourism, and business connectivity between Kenya and the United Kingdom.
“This new service gives our customers more options and enhances our links with the UK,” Kenya Airways said in a statement posted on its official channels. The airline already operates flights to London Heathrow.
The London Gatwick route adds vital capacity at a time when demand for travel between Africa and Europe is rising. It also aligns with Kenya’s efforts to improve trade flows and attract more international visitors.
In a separate announcement, Kenya Airways confirmed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Qatar Airways. The agreement outlines a strategic partnership that includes a comprehensive codeshare, shared services, and expanded cooperation across multiple business areas.
Under the new arrangement, both airlines will offer passengers access to more destinations through joint scheduling and codeshare connectivity. This includes planned Kenya Airways flights between Mombasa and Doha, which Qatar Airways will market starting this winter season.
The MoU also covers cooperation in cargo handling, ground services, and loyalty programs. Passengers enrolled in either airline’s frequent flyer scheme will benefit from reciprocal rewards and smoother travel experiences across the two networks.
“This collaboration is a step forward in offering our customers more destinations and better service through seamless connectivity,” Kenya Airways noted.
The announcements follow a broader push by African carriers to strengthen international partnerships and adapt to shifting global aviation trends. Both the Gatwick launch and the Qatar Airways deal signal Kenya Airways’ intent to deepen its footprint in Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.
With these moves, the airline continues to rebuild and reposition itself after years of pandemic-related disruptions and financial strain.
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