Low‑cost carrier Jambojet has unveiled plans to triple its fleet and extend operations far beyond its current East African footprint, positioning itself as a pan‑African airline connecting major cities across the continent.
Fleet Expansion Strategy
- Jambojet currently operates 11 aircraft, primarily Dash 8 Q400 turboprops, which have anchored its short‑haul network.
- The airline plans to introduce larger, longer‑range jets to serve destinations in West Africa, North Africa, and Southern Africa.
- The Dash 8 fleet will continue to support high‑frequency domestic routes such as Mombasa, Kisumu, Eldoret, Diani, and Malindi.
CEO Karanja Ndegwa said:
“This expansion marks a pivotal shift for Jambojet. By introducing larger aircraft, we will extend our reach beyond East Africa and tap into the growing demand for air travel across the continent.”
Market Impact
- Since its launch in 2014, Jambojet has flown over 9 million passengers and commands more than 50% of Kenya’s domestic market.
- Revenue has surpassed Kshs 13.0 billion, driven by rising demand for affordable air travel.
- The expansion is expected to strengthen Nairobi’s role as a strategic aviation hub, linking African capitals and commercial centres.
Jambojet Acquires License to Fly to 7 New African Destinations
Boost to Tourism & Hospitality
Industry analysts highlight significant spillover benefits for Kenya’s hospitality sector:
“We expect that Jambojet’s decision to triple its fleet and open routes into West and Southern Africa will significantly lift Kenya’s hospitality sector. By improving regional connectivity, lowering travel costs, and attracting more business and leisure travellers, the expansion strengthens demand for hotels, resorts, and serviced apartments across the country,” says Cytonn Investments.
Leadership Transition
In governance news, Jambojet has appointed Ayisi Makatiani, E.B.S., as Chairman of the Board, effective 17 November 2025. He succeeds Vincent Rague, who has served since 2014.
Mr Makatiani is CEO and co‑founder of Caava Group and executive chairman of Turnkey Africa. He previously sat on boards, including Barclays Bank Kenya (now Absa) and Kenya Airways PLC, where he helped establish Jambojet and served as its founding chairman.
CEO Karanja Ndegwa welcomed his return:
“His leadership will accelerate our next phase in expanding regional connectivity, elevating the customer experience, and strengthening our safety and reliability.”
Mr Makatiani added:
“Stepping into this role is both an honour and a great responsibility. Jambojet has transformed regional aviation over the past decade, and my goal is to build on that legacy by making travel even more affordable, reliable and sustainable.”
The airline also paid tribute to outgoing Chairman Vincent Rague and non‑executive director Caroline Armstrong, under whose leadership Jambojet achieved a sustained 12% annual growth rate and expanded its network to serve millions of passengers.
