Kenya Airways, the country’s national carrier and Air India, India’s leading global carrier have embarked on a transformative codeshare partnership, marking a significant milestone in African-Asian aviation collaboration. The agreement aims to enhance connectivity between Kenya and India while unlocking seamless travel opportunities for passengers across both airlines’ networks.
Under the partnership, Kenya Airways (KQ) will place its code on Air India’s non-stop flights between Nairobi and Mumbai, as well as Nairobi and Delhi, while Air India will add its code to Kenya Airways’ services on the same routes. This synergy allows travellers to book flights on a single ticket, enjoy through-check-in services, and experience streamlined baggage transfers, reducing the hassle often associated with multi-airline journeys.
The partnership also grants passengers access to a broader array of destinations. Kenya Airways flyers can now seamlessly connect to Air India’s extensive domestic network within India, reaching cities like Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bangalore, as well as key international hubs such as Singapore, Bangkok, and Melbourne.
Conversely, Air India passengers gain convenient connections to over 40 African destinations via Kenya Airways’ robust network, including Johannesburg, Lagos, Dakar, and Accra. This mutual expansion is poised to boost tourism, trade, and cultural exchanges, positioning Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport as a pivotal gateway between Africa and Asia.
According to Julius Thairu, Chief Commercial Officer at Kenya Airways, the partnership helps the airline to fulfill its mission to connect Africa to the world. “We are delighted to expand our partnership to Air India, that will open up significant opportunity for our passengers. This codeshare agreement allows us to offer seamless connections to a wider range of destinations across both airlines’ networks, making travel easier and more convenient,” he said.
Nipun Aggarwal, Air India’s Chief Commercial Officer, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the value for Indian travellers exploring Africa and vice versa. “Deepening our partnership with Kenya Airways aligns perfectly with Air India’s strategic vision of expanding our global footprint and strengthening our position in key markets. Our codeshare partnership will provide significant benefit to guests of both airlines, and also contribute to the overall growth of air travel between India and Africa,” he said.
Beyond logistical benefits, the codeshare also includes reciprocal perks such as lounge access for premium passengers and the ability to earn frequent flyer points across both loyalty programs—a nod to enhancing passenger comfort and satisfaction. This deal not only simplifies journeys to India but also opens doors to Southeast Asia, Australia, and beyond through Air India’s routes. Similarly, it allows smoother access to Africa’s vibrant economies and safari destinations.
The partnership arrives at a strategic time, coinciding with growing economic ties between Kenya and India, particularly in technology, agriculture, and renewable energy. Through their cross-continental partnership, the two parties are ushering in a transformative phase of connectivity that highlights how strategic alliances can redefine international air travel.
KQs’ dedication to pioneering solutions and prioritizing passenger needs continues to solidify Kenya’s role as a central gateway linking Africa to global markets. By merging their networks and expertise, the two airlines are amplifying opportunities for trade, tourism, and cultural exchange, while positioning Nairobi as a critical nexus in the ever-evolving aviation landscape.
