Regional low-cost carrier, Jambojet says its growth will be anchored through partnerships and alliances as it marked its 5th year anniversary on Thursday.
Vincent Rague, Jambojet’s Board Chairman said since its inception five years ago, “The trajectory is good…we have witnessed remarkable growth with significant milestones. We have created a strong brand and we remain ambitious.”
He added that aviation will be a key realisation of the African rising story propelled by numerous possibilities from the growing population.
“In Africa, it is estimated that 2.5% of the passengers have travel documents, and 88% need to have them,” noted Rague.
However, competition within the Kenya domestic market, increased competition, and the revival of Tanzania, Rwanda and Uganda airlines were cited as emerging challenges for them.
Besides that, the airline is optimistic with the changes as they will result in market liberalization and the lowering of travel cost.
Allan Kilavuka, the chief executive said the airline is committed to continuing to improve on its key values of reliability and safety.
Presently, Jambojet’s on-time performance (OTP) stands at 86 %, one of the highest in the Kenyan market.
“Safety is a principal requisite in our industry. Our customers need the assurance that they can travel comfortably, affordably and securely to any of our destinations. As we expand our operations into the African market, we are keen to offer value beyond convenience and affordability. Our core promise to our customers and partners is reliability and safety,” Kilavuka said.
According to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Kenya’s air safety score was at 78% in 2017, a 16% improvement from 2008, placing it seventh in Africa.
In 2018, Jambojet launched its first regional route to Entebbe, Uganda.
“We are in talks with various governments in the African market as we look to expand our operations to markets such as Bujumbura, Juba, Kigali, Zanzibar, Mwanza and Kilimanjaro. We believe once we have further liberalization of the skies, we will be able to expand our operations even further,” Mr. Kilavuka said.
Transport Chief Administrative Secretary Dr Chris Obure said:“We are proud of the achievements Jambojet has had in its five years of operation. The airline has been particularly instrumental in shaping the low-cost model which has allowed many Kenyans to fly.”
