Kenya Airways (KQ) and Safarilink Aviation have launched a one-way codeshare partnership aimed at simplifying travel to Kenya’s premier safari destinations.
Under the agreement, international travelers booking through Kenya Airways can now secure both long-haul flights and domestic connections to remote airstrips on a single ticket, eliminating the need for separate reservations.
The collaboration links KQ’s global network with Safarilink’s twice-daily flights to nine airstrips in the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Nanyuki, and Samburu regions. Safarilink will deploy its Cessna Caravan and Dash-8 aircraft to facilitate access to these areas, which are critical for wildlife tourism but logistically challenging to reach.
Allan Kilavuka, CEO of Kenya Airways, emphasized the operational and community benefits of the partnership. “This initiative optimizes aircraft utilization, reduces transit delays, and enhances traveler flexibility,” he said. “It also supports local economies and conservation efforts, as tourism remains vital to Kenya’s heritage.”
The move responds to robust demand for safari experiences, which drove 44.2% of Kenya’s tourist arrivals in 2024. Alex Avedi, CEO of Safarilink, noted the alignment of the partnership with traveler expectations: “Our fleet is tailored for efficiency in remote regions, ensuring visitors spend less time traveling and more time exploring.”
Julius Thairu, KQ’s Chief Commercial Officer, highlighted Kenya’s reputation as a top safari destination and the importance of seamless travel solutions. “Modern travelers prioritize convenience,” he said. “This single-ticket approach reduces friction and elevates the overall experience.”
The partnership aligns with Kenya Airways’ strategy to expand its market share by enhancing service integration. It also strengthens ties with travel agencies and tour operators, positioning KQ competitively amid rising regional tourism investments.
Kenya’s safari industry, a cornerstone of its economy, has increasingly relied on strategic alliances to improve accessibility. Similar codeshare models have been adopted by airlines in Tanzania and South Africa, reflecting a broader trend toward streamlining Africa’s niche tourism markets. Analysts suggest such collaborations could bolster Kenya’s goal of attracting 5.5 million annual tourists by 2030, leveraging infrastructure synergies to sustain growth in a competitive global landscape.
