Uhuru Announces Dates for Resumption of Domestic and International Flights

President Kenyatta has announced the dates for the resumption of both domestic and international flights.

During a televised address to the nation on Monday, Uhuru said airlines will be allowed to resume operations on July 15th for local flights and August 1st for international flights.

This is part of the gradual re-opening of the economy and comes after extensive consultations between the government and aviation stakeholders on safe return of air travel in the country.

“Local air travel shall resume effective July 15 in strict conformity with protocols from both the Ministry of Health and civil aviation management,” Uhuru stated.

The Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Moi International Airport in Mombasa, and Eldoret International Airport were inspected last week and cleared to resume operations.

The inspection of the country’s three main airport facilities was done by government officials led by Transport CS James Macharia and his Tourism counterpart Najib Balala.

Kenya suspended air travel on March 25th as part of the measures aimed at combating the spread of the Covid-19 disease.

Airlines, airports, and travelers will be required to observe strict guidelines to prevent transmission of the virus including social distancing rules and mandatory wearing of facemasks by passengers, according to protocols shared by Kenya Airways to staff members.

Both international and domestic flights will increase check-in time by one hour, meaning the total wait time for local and international travelers will now be two and three hours respectively. 

On the other hand, airport lounges will be required to incorporate measures to achieve social distancing while travelers will undergo mandatory temperature checks using thermal guns.

Cabin crew must wear personal protective equipment (PPE) inflight while meal boxes and cutlery will require a single wrap.