Kenya Airways has launched its first-ever direct flight to London Gatwick, marking a major expansion in its UK operations and strengthening trade and tourism ties between Kenya and the United Kingdom.
The inaugural flight, KQ108, departed from Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at 11:45 PM on Tuesday, July 2, 2025.
The launch was witness by Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife Rebecca Miano, Kenya Airways CEO Allan Kilavuka, and UK Deputy High Commissioner Ed Barnett.
“This route is more than just a flight path it’s a strategic bridge between two nations with deep historical and economic ties,” said Kilavuka.
“Gatwick opens up more flexibility for our passengers and gives us room to grow in one of our most important markets.” Kilavuka emphasized.
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The service will operate three times a week on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays using the modern Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. Return flights from Gatwick will depart on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, complementing Kenya Airways’ existing daily flights to London Heathrow and increasing total weekly UK flights to ten.
The route opens just as Kenya enters its busiest travel season between July and September, when global tourists flock to the country to witness wildlife spectacles such as the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara.
“Our visitor numbers, particularly from the UK, will be greatly increased by this historic service,” noted CS Miano.
“It also offers a chance to promote the expansion of multi-destination travel and highlight Kenya’s diversity, from its cultural legacy to its coastal attractions.” she added.
UK Deputy High Commissioner Ed Barnett described the move as mutually beneficial, noting the strong Kenyan diaspora in the UK and growing interest among British travelers in Kenya.
“This path strengthens bilateral collaboration and our people-to-people ties,” he said.
