Beginning November 15, 2024, AirAsia X (AAX), a mid-range low-cost airline operating primarily in the Asia-Pacific region, will operate four weekly direct flights from Nairobi, Kenya, to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
This makes AAX the first Malaysian low-cost carrier to offer direct connectivity to Nairobi. As this route presents excellent connectivity opportunities to other key markets that AirAsia X serves, including Australia, China, South Korea, Japan, and Thailand, the new route is predicted to drastically change Kenya's economy, greatly impacting trade, tourism, and education.
Impact on trade and investment.
With a direct connection between the Kenyan and Malaysian markets, this flight marks a turning point in trade between the two areas. Kenyan businesses can use this to boost exports of essential Kenyan produce such as tea, coffee, and flowers, enabling companies to reach a broader market and increase revenues.
Additionally, doors for Malaysian companies to invest in Kenya have also been opened, giving them a chance for investors to set up shop here. This increase in bilateral trade will strengthen economic ties and create a more balanced trade relationship between the two countries.
Impact on tourism and cultural exchange
The World Travel & Tourism Council's (WTTC) 2024 Economic Impact Research (EIR) revealed a record-breaking year for Travel & Tourism with a contribution of KES1TN to Kenya's national economy in 2023 and a projection to contribute a whooping MYR 198.7BN in 2024 in Malaysia's national economy.
It is safe to say that Tourism is a massive contributor to the economy, and launching direct flights across these two nations will strengthen the position of this sector as an economic giant.
Traveling will be more accessible for Kenyan tourists and visitors from Southeast Asia as AirAsia X offers a seamless Fly-Thru connection, creating a vital link between Nairobi to 130 destinations across Southeast Asia, Northern and Central Asia, and Australia providing affordable and convenient travel options for all.
Moreover, Kenyan citizens can enjoy visa-free travel to Malaysia, the Philippines, and Singapore, with visa-on-arrival options in Indonesia, making exploring the region even more convenient.
The influx of tourists from the Asean region will positively impact Kenya's tourism sector, with more visitors set to explore the country's rich cultural heritage, wildlife, and natural beauty.
Impact on Kenya-Malaysia relations
With the introduction of the direct route, Kenya has become an increasingly significant hub for trade and tourism in East Africa. Ekitela Moru, Kenya's High Commissioner to Malaysia, has emphasized how the new route boosts investment, trade, and tourism.
The CEO of AirAsia X, Benyamin Ismail, has emphasized the significance of this new relationship in reaffirming AAX's dedication to growing its worldwide footprint. The route fosters cultural interactions and improves Kenya-Malaysia relations by making travel between the two countries easier. Over 156,000 passengers are anticipated to use these direct flights each year.
It is important to note that AirAsia X's direct flight from Nairobi to Kuala Lumpur is a significant step in Kenya-Asia economic relations.
The route is anticipated to strengthen ties between Kenya and Malaysia through trade, tourism, and education and boost economic progress. AsAirAsia X continues to expand its reach, this direct connection promises to reshape Kenya's financial landscape, benefiting both nations and contributing to regional development in East Africa
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