AirAsia X (AAX), Asia’s leading long-haul low-cost carrier, has announced a strategic partnership with the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) aimed at enhancing connectivity between Asia and Africa and driving tourism growth for both regions.
The collaboration coincides with the upcoming launch of AAX’s new direct flights connecting Kuala Lumpur to Nairobi, set to commence on 15 November 2024 with four weekly flights.
Today, the two institutions signed a collaborative agreement to promote the footprints of the airline to increase passage traffic, where Kenya is set to reap big from the Asian markets.
KTB CEO June Chepkemei disclosed that the collaboration would drive a substantial growth in tourism numbers to Kenya. “This enhanced connectivity will stimulate economic growth and create new opportunities for local businesses, showcasing Kenya as a key destination for global travelers, especially from Asia.
“By facilitating easier access to Nairobi, says Chepkemei, the country anticipates an increased tourism revenue and stronger cultural exchange, benefiting both Kenya’s tourism sector and its broader economy,” Chepkemei remarked.
The Asia Pacific region is a key source market for Kenya the region saw over 320,000 travelers into the country in 2023, with India, China, and Japan among the top drivers of visitor arrivals.
“Our goal through this collaboration is to ensure that we have more tourists coming from Malaysia and other regional destinations to Kenya,” Chepkemei stated.
The partnership between AAX and the KTB includes joint promotional activities, coordinated marketing campaigns, and collaborative efforts to enhance travel experiences. It aims to leverage the strengths of both organizations to attract more tourists and stimulate economic growth in both countries.
Moreover, in alignment with Malaysia’s upcoming Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, this new route will bolster Malaysia’s appeal as a premier travel destination offering diverse experiences. Kuala Lumpur will serve as a key gateway for tourists from Nairobi, granting them direct access to Malaysia’s vibrant attractions, including its cultural landmarks, scenic landscapes, and thriving culinary scene.
Benyamin Ismail, CEO of AirAsia X said that the airline was excited to launch the new direct route to Nairobi from next month.
“This is a major milestone in our mission to connect Asia with Africa and opens up a world of travel possibilities between the two continents. Our partnership with KTB demonstrates our commitment to expanding travel opportunities and boosting tourism. This new route will play a crucial role in Kenya’s tourism growth and create new connections for travelers. For our other key routes such as Australia and China, Nairobi will now be easily accessible, offering new adventures in Africa and enhanced travel options via Kuala Lumpur. This route not only strengthens our global network but also supports the tourism goals of both Kenya and Malaysia,” said Ismail.
As part of the partnership, AAX is offering special fares for travelers from Nairobi to Kuala Lumpur for KES 25,788 (USD 199) all-in* one-way in Economy or KES 64,665 (USD 499) to experience AAX’s award-winning Premium Flatbed**. Bookings are available now through 6 October 2024, for the travel period from 15 November 2024 until 30 June 2025.
By connecting Nairobi directly with Kuala Lumpur, AAX aims to capture a larger share of this market, providing Asian travelers with more accessible options to explore Kenya’s unique attractions and contributing to the region’s growing tourism sector.
About the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB)
Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) is a state corporation established and regulated under the Tourism Act 2011. Our mandate is to develop, implement, and co-ordinate a National Tourism Marketing Strategy. To market Kenya as the home of human origin and as an all-year-round diverse, sustainable and authentic tourism destination.
Magical Kenya is the flagship tourism brand created and managed by the KTB. Magical Kenya captures the essence of Kenya’s diverse offerings, promoting the country as a must-visit destination for local, regional, and international travelers.
About AirAsia X
AirAsia X (AAX) is an award-winning mid-range low-cost airline operating primarily in the Asia-Pacific region. Established in 2006 as Fly Asian Express (FAX), the airline rebranded in 2007, launching its first flight to Australia. AAX now operates scheduled flights to destinations in Australia, China, India, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Central Asia, and soon to Kenya from hubs in Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. As of December 2023, it maintains a fleet of 18 A330-300 aircraft, with its associate Thai AirAsia X operating eight A330-300 aircraft.
