Kenya Airways and Qatar Airways Ink Strategic Partnership, Relaunch Key Routes

Kenya Airways (KQ) and Qatar Airways have announced a far-reaching strategic partnership, combining operational muscle and network reach to better serve passengers, cargo, and regional tourism markets. The collaboration includes the launch of new routes, an expanded codeshare agreement, and joint ventures across ground handling, maintenance, and loyalty programs.

Codeshare Deal: More Flights, More Access

Under the agreement:

• Qatar Airways is adding a third daily flight between Doha (DOH) and Nairobi (NBO), significantly enhancing capacity and convenience for East African travelers.
• Kenya Airways will launch direct flights from Mombasa (MBA) to Doha in the upcoming winter schedule. These flights will be operated by KQ but marketed by Qatar Airways under a codeshare arrangement.

These new services will be integrated into both carriers’ global networks, offering seamless connections via Hamad International Airport in Doha and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi.

Unlocking Regional and Global Growth

The partnership comes at a pivotal time for Kenya Airways, as it works toward long-term profitability following recent restructuring efforts. With this deal, KQ taps into Qatar’s massive international reach while providing the Gulf carrier with enhanced access to African markets, particularly in East and Southern Africa.

Both airlines have confirmed the partnership will also extend into key operational areas such as:

• Ground handling
• Cargo and freight logistics
• Procurement and supply chain
• Maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO)
• Frequent flyer program coordination

This wide-ranging cooperation mirrors Qatar Airways’ ongoing strategy to form strong, region-specific alliances as global demand rebounds.

Mombasa–Doha Route Returns

One of the most exciting developments for Kenyan travellers is the return of direct flights between Mombasa and Doha, which will resume in winter 2025. This marks the first international long-haul route from Mombasa in several years, re-establishing Kenya’s coastal hub on the global aviation map.

This renewed partnership aligns with Qatar Airways’ 20th anniversary of service to Kenya and reflects growing interest from Gulf carriers in the African market. For Kenya Airways, it marks a critical step in expanding its reach without the financial strain of launching entirely new operations alone. Both airlines have signaled that this is just the beginning, with more cooperative announcements likely in the near future.