Local carrier Safarilink Aviation Limited will discontinue flights between Nairobi and Kitale, citing an unfavourable business environment.
The route’s success was hampered by two main factors: high fuel costs and inadequate airport facilities, which resulted in flight cancellations.
This decision comes after Safarilink resumed service on the route in April 2022 [following a two-year hiatus due to airport renovations].
The National Treasury had allocated Sh727 million in the 2023-24 budget for the expansion and refurbishment of several airstrips across the country.
This investment aimed at improving air transport infrastructure in these regions. The budget breakdown highlights specific allocations:
- Migori Airstrip: Sh211 million
- Lanet Airstrip: Sh203 million
- Kitale Airstrip: Sh130 million
- Isiolo Airstrip: Sh70 million
- Angama Airstrip: Sh113 million
Rehabilitation works on Kitale Airstrip involved the extension of the runway to accommodate code 2B Aircraft. The Airstrip, which has a 1.45-kilometre strip, was given two new taxiways, totalling four.
Safarilink’s last flight will operate on June 8, 2023.
“We are a tourism-focused airline, and unfortunately, the Nairobi-Kitale route is no longer commercially viable,” said Alex Avedi, Safarilink’s Chief Executive Officer, to the Business Daily.
Previously, Safarilink operated the route five times a week using Dash 8-100/200 aircraft.
The airline will provide full refunds to passengers who booked tickets for flights after June 8th.
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