After a six-year hiatus, and the wait for full recovery after the pandemic and the global travel crisis, Dutch charter airline TUI Fly, linked to one of the world's leading international tour operators, the German TUI group, has resumed its weekly flights to Kenya, landing a few days ago at Mombasa's Moi International Airport TUI Fly's resumption of flights reconnects Kenya's coastal tourism with northern Europe, bringing Kenya back to the centre of the choices of a good chunk of travellers who for some years now had been finding it more difficult to choose coastal destinations, particularly Diani and Nyali, but also Watamu.
As Travel and World Tour reports, this return is expected to be a game-changer for the region's tourism sector, stimulating the local economy and offering new travel options to European tourists wishing to visit Mombasa's picturesque beaches, national parks and cultural monuments.
Previously, TUI Fly established regular direct routes connecting Mombasa to several key European cities, offering travellers convenient access to the region's renowned beaches, natural parks and rich cultural experiences.
If TUI reactivates this network and refocuses on Kenya, intensifying partnerships with hotels and activities, the economic benefits will soon be evident.
In fact, the Dutch tour operator is rumoured to be looking for a resort in Watamu itself, which is considered an established emerging destination, with a dedicated charter flight.
‘Tourism is one of the key industries driving Kenya's economy and TUI Fly's return to Mombasa is in line with efforts to revive the sector. The European market is a crucial source of tourists for Kenya, particularly for the coastal city, known for its white sand beaches along the Indian Ocean, the diverse marine life in its coastal waters and the national parks that are home to Africa's famous wildlife. By re-establishing direct flight routes, the airline will help improve the accessibility of Mombasa as a holiday destination, making it easier for European travellers to visit the region. This is especially important as international travel is resuming after the pandemic-related restrictions and many tourists are looking for new and safe destinations,' TWT adds.
The renewed route between Mombasa and Europe is likely to have a knock-on effect on Kenya's hospitality and tourism sectors. The increase in tourism from Europe is expected to directly benefit hotels, resorts, safari lodges and other related businesses along the Kenyan coast. In addition, the renewed air link will strengthen local economies by increasing demand for services such as transport, dining and entertainment. The broader regional economy will also benefit from increased visitor spending, which can encourage job creation and further investment in tourism infrastructure. TUI's choice could also be a driver for new demand for routes between Kenya and Europe, putting those who would still favour the national airline Kenya Airways and are in fact blocking the so-called ‘open skies policy’ that would reactivate direct flights and could open up interesting new markets.