Etihad Airways, the Abu Dhabi-based carrier, has resumed flights to Nairobi, marking the first time since the suspension of its operations in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The inaugural flight from Abu Dhabi to Kenya’s capital received a warm welcome at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Sunday.
Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua on Monday joined the celebration of Etihad Airlines’ resumption of flights to Kenya.
According to CS Mutua, this milestone reflects growing confidence in Kenya’s economy.
“Recently, we also welcomed Brussels Airlines, Zambia Airlines, and Air Asia, signaling that Kenya’s economy is expanding and remains a prime destination for business,” he said.
Mutua added that these airlines bring numerous job opportunities for Kenyans, particularly in Nairobi.
“Moreover, we have agreed with Etihad Airlines to hold a recruitment roadshow in Kenya this coming January. The initiative will focus on hiring Kenyan pilots, engineers, cabin crew, and ground handling personnel,” he added.
He also commended Etihad Airlines for its efficiency and exceptional service and welcomed them back to Kenya.
The airline announced that it will now offer nonstop flights between Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport (AUH) and Nairobi JKIA (NBO) four times a week, operating on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Etihad Airways is ranked as the 19th-best airline globally and is the UAE’s second-largest airline after Emirates, which holds the position of the world’s third-best airline.
This resumption of flights strengthens connectivity between the two regions, benefiting both business and leisure travelers.
