By Ogova Ondego
Published June 19, 2012
Over the past few weeks, new airlines have joined the fray for passengers to and from Nairobi. One such airline is the Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airlines that is till September 10, 2012 offering accompanied children flying to Abu Dhabi free travel as long as every child is accompanied by a paying adult. Children between 12-16 years can fly at 50% of the paid adult fare.
Etihad’s current fares to Abu Dhabi and Dubai are US$429 and US$399,respectively, including taxes and service fees. From Abu Dhabi it is only an hour’s drive to Dubai and the shuttle bus cost is already included in the flight ticket.
Korean Air starts operations into Kenya on June 22, 2012. It shall fly from Nairobi direct to Seoul, South Korea, three times a week.
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There is no doubt that travel to and from Nairobi is getting more affordable and convenient for many passengers. Airlines like Kenya Airways are likely to change their strategies in order to survive the onslaught from cheaper airlines that also appear to offer better service in terms of connection, fares and time management. Already, many passengers of KQ are switching their loyalty to the new players.
Though less than 10 years since its commencement of operation in November 2003, Etihad Airways is touted as the fastest growing operator in aviation history. It operates more than 1,200 flights per week to more than 82 destinations in more than 50 countries, with a fleet of 66 Airbus and Boeing aircraft.
With Etihad flying to Chicago and New York in USA, London and Manchester in the United Kingdom, Chennai and Mumbai in India and to Australia, it could be a better deal for travellers from Nairobi.
