Kenya Airways Targets Chinese Capital with Launch of Direct Nairobi–Beijing Flights
BEIJING, China
Kenya Airways (KQ) is gearing up to launch direct flights to Beijing as part of its growing ambitions to expand its global network, strengthen commercial ties, and deepen cultural exchange between Kenya and China.
After nearly 20 years of operating flights to Guangzhou, KQ’s move into China’s capital signals a significant leap in its strategic positioning within Asia. This development follows the airline’s dramatic return to profitability after more than a decade of losses, bolstered by its recovery blueprint dubbed Project Kifaru.
Fleet Modernisation Crucial to Route Launch
While the Beijing route is highly anticipated, sources familiar with the project in China have indicated that KQ will need to upgrade its ageing fleet before it can initiate direct flights. The airline’s current focus includes investing in modern aircraft and enhancing inflight experience to match the competitive international market.
Strengthening Diplomatic and Commercial Ties
President William Ruto, currently on a state visit to China, endorsed the expansion, framing it as more than just a commercial step.
“For us, it is not just a commercial relationship, but a people-to-people connection that we are looking to deepen,” the President told Chinese media outlet CGTN.
Accompanying Ruto, Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei also underlined the importance of the Beijing route for both passenger and cargo movement.
“We want to reach more Chinese cities to tap into the 20 million outbound Chinese tourists annually,” said Sing’oei, noting that faster cargo movement would boost Kenyan exports beyond the now-established avocado trade.
Tourism and Trade to Benefit from New Route
With over 500 Chinese companies already operating in Kenya, and more eyeing the East African market, direct air connectivity to Beijing is expected to significantly ease travel and business logistics. Moreover, China is an increasingly important source of tourists for Kenya, drawn by the country’s safari experiences, cultural richness, and favourable visa policies.
To prepare for the rising number of Chinese travelers, Kenya Airways has begun recruiting Mandarin-speaking cabin crew and is strengthening partnerships with Chinese airlines through interline agreements and code-sharing.
Profitability Signals New Era for National Carrier
The decision to expand into Beijing comes on the heels of a landmark financial milestone for KQ. For the year ending December 2024, the airline posted a net profit of Ksh 5.4 billion, marking its first full-year profit since 2013. This follows a major turnaround from the Ksh 22.6 billion loss reported the previous year.
CEO Allan Kilavuka attributed this success to Project Kifaru, which has focused on operational efficiency, customer experience enhancement, and route optimization.
“We are committed to growing our network, modernising our fleet, and diversifying services to ensure long-term sustainability,” Kilavuka stated.
What’s Next for KQ?
As Kenya Airways prepares for its Beijing debut, its broader vision includes tapping into emerging markets, scaling cargo operations, and staying competitive in the increasingly dynamic aviation industry. The Beijing route, once operational, could become a cornerstone of KQ’s new growth strategy and a bridge for deepening Kenya-China relations.
