The country’s tourism sector has received a major boost in its strive to lure more Indians for leisure travel into the country following the launch of Mumbai – Nairobi direct flights.
The Indian airline IndiGo, commenced the daily direct flight on August 5, marking the first entry into the African market, with further plans to use Kenya as a gateway to the other African states.
IndiGo’s CEO Pieter Elbers said the move aims to cater to the needs of both business and leisure travelers from India, while fostering strategic bilateral ties between the two nations.
“With Kenya’s intent to enhance economic growth through tourism, cultural exchange and collaboration in various fields, we are thrilled with the commencement of direct flights, as their goal aligns with our overall vision of providing accessibility and connecting people with places towards economic growth,” Elbers said.
Early this year, Kenya stated its ambitions to increase tourist numbers from the Asian country, as well as tap into the growing demand for Indian travelers.
Speaking during a tourism fair in Mumbai in February, Kenya's high commissioner to India, Ambassador Willy Bett said the Indian community has the potential to add to the international tourism visitation into Kenya.
"Current travel trends shows that the Indian travelers' segment has the disposable income and is ready to travel to tourism destinations,” Bett said.
He added that Kenya was in the right position to tap into the market and grow its tourism business