By Diana Wenwa
In a significant milestone for Kenya’s aviation sector, Brussels Airlines has resumed its direct flights to Nairobi after a nearly decade-long hiatus.
The inaugural flight landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Monday night, marking the beginning of a new era of connectivity between Europe and East Africa.
The return of Brussels Airlines is a testament to Nairobi’s growing importance as a regional hub, and it has been met with great enthusiasm. Hon. Caleb Kositany, the Chair of the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) Board, highlighted the ambitious plans for the expansion of JKIA, which aim to enhance the airport’s capacity to handle more passengers and flights.
This upgrade will position Nairobi as a premier aviation hub in Africa, crucial for accommodating the increasing number of international flights and enhancing the economy through improved connectivity.
Hon. Caleb Kositany emphasized the significance of expanding JKIA, stating, “Expanding JKIA is crucial for accommodating the increasing number of international flights and for bolstering our economy through improved connectivity.”
He also expressed the collective excitement, noting that the return of Flying Brussels is not only a celebration of the current achievement but also a look ahead to future growth.
The flight was welcomed by a distinguished delegation, including Mohamed Daghar, Principal Secretary, State Department for Transport, Ministry of Roads and Transport, Immigration Services PS Julius Bitok; Ambassador of Belgium to Kenya Peter Maddens and Hon. Caleb Kositany, Chair of the KAA Board.
The return of Brussels Airlines to Kenya is a significant development in Kenya’s aviation sector, and it is expected to have a positive impact on the country’s economy and connectivity.