Turkish Airlines Resumes Direct Flights to Mombasa After Five-Year Hiatus.[Courtesy]
By Kimberly Kalusi
Turkish Airlines has officially resumed its direct flights to Mombasa, marking a major boost for Kenya’s tourism and aviation sectors. The maiden flight touched down at Moi International Airport on Monday morning, ending a five-year suspension of the Istanbul–Mombasa route.
In a statement, the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) confirmed the return of the flagship carrier, describing it as a “vote of confidence” in Kenya’s coastal tourism market and the country’s aviation infrastructure.
“We are delighted to welcome back Turkish Airlines to Mombasa. This reinstated connection strengthens Kenya’s position as a leading tourism and business hub in Africa,” KAA said.
The airline had suspended its operations in 2020 due to global travel disruptions triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic. Its comeback now makes it one of the few international carriers offering direct flights from Europe to Kenya’s coastal city, alongside Qatar Airways and Ethiopian Airlines.
Turkish Airlines will operate three weekly flights—on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays—between Istanbul and Mombasa, with onward connections to over 120 destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
Speaking during the flight’s reception ceremony, Transport Principal Secretary Mohamed Daghar hailed the return as a milestone for Kenya’s aviation recovery strategy.
“The reinstatement of Turkish Airlines’ direct service reflects renewed global confidence in Kenya’s airspace and the potential of our coastal economy,” Daghar said.
Tourism stakeholders have also welcomed the move, saying it will ease travel for European tourists heading to the Kenyan coast. Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) Chairperson Joanne Mwangi-Yelbert said the route will “significantly improve tourist arrivals” and support the government’s vision to attract five million visitors annually by 2030.
Mombasa and the wider Coast region remain key destinations for Turkish, German, and Italian holidaymakers seeking beach and cultural experiences.
With the resumption, passengers traveling from Europe and Asia can now fly directly to Mombasa without transiting through Nairobi, saving time and costs.
“This is great news for Mombasa’s hospitality industry and the entire value chain—from hoteliers to tour operators,” said Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir. “We are ready to welcome the world back to our shores.”
Aviation analysts predict that Turkish Airlines’ return could stimulate competition among international carriers and drive down ticket prices on the Europe–Kenya route, benefiting both tourists and business travelers.
The move is also expected to strengthen bilateral relations between Kenya and Türkiye, which have deepened in recent years through trade, education, and investment partnerships.
