Kenya Airways (KQ) has recently announced an increase in its weekly flights to New York City in the United States, raising the number from seven to nine for the upcoming summer season. This expansion aims to meet the rising demand for travel and to bolster tourism.

Effective from June 15, 2024, to September 28, 2024, the airline will introduce two additional flights each week. This decision comes as part of a strategic collaboration between Kenya Airways and the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB), aimed at promoting Kenya as a prime tourist destination in North America.

In a statement released on Thursday night, KQ highlighted their partnership with KTB, which will be showcased through a series of roadshows scheduled in New York, Boston, and Toronto. The roadshows, taking place from March 19th to 21st, 2024, are designed to spotlight Kenya’s attractions and stimulate interest in travel to the country.

The added flights will not only cater to the increasing demand but will also enhance travel options for passengers. With the introduction of two additional flights on Thursdays and Saturdays, travelers from New York will now have the flexibility of choosing between morning and afternoon departures.

Furthermore, since the launch of the direct route between New York and Nairobi in 2018, Kenya Airways has continually strived to provide convenient travel experiences. The new flight schedule offers a unique benefit of same-day arrival, allowing passengers to depart from Nairobi in the morning and arrive in New York in the afternoon.

The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife anticipates a significant boost in international tourist arrivals as a result of these measures. Projections suggest an increase of 825,000 annual arrivals, building upon the upward trend seen in recent years. In 2023, international tourist arrivals into Kenya surged to 1.75 million, up from 1.48 million recorded in 2022.