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Turkish Airlines has officially resumed direct flights to Mombasa, Kenya, marking a return to the coastal city after a five-year pause.
The flights resumed on Sunday, October 26, with the inaugural Boeing 737 touching down at Moi International Airport early Monday morning. The aircraft was greeted with a ceremonial water cannon salute, symbolizing the renewed air link between Istanbul and Mombasa.
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“Jambo Mombasa! Starting 26 October, this stunning coastal city is just a flight away! We’re back to reconnect you with Mombasa’s palm-fringed beaches, coral reefs, and vibrant culture,” the Turkish national carrier announced.
According to the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), the airline will operate three weekly flights, each carrying up to 8 tons of belly cargo, a move expected to enhance coastal trade and boost exports.
The welcoming ceremony was attended by Turkey’s Ambassador Subutay Yüksel, KAA Chairman Caleb Kositany, and senior officials from both Turkish Airlines and KAA.
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, who announced the airline’s return in June after discussions with Turkish Airlines’ General Manager Oguzcan Yerli, hailed the development as a major milestone for the region’s tourism and logistics sectors.
“This is a big win for Mombasa. We’re open to the world and committed to strengthening global connectivity that brings opportunities closer to our people,” said Governor Nassir.
Founded in 1933, Turkish Airlines is Türkiye’s national carrier and a member of the Star Alliance network. The airline operates scheduled flights to 352 destinations across 131 countries, making it the world’s most connected carrier from a single hub — Istanbul Airport.
Its cargo division, Turkish Cargo, operates 24 freighters serving 82 global destinations. The direct Istanbul–Mombasa route covers approximately 3,221 miles with a flight time of 7 hours and 15 minutes.
The airline’s return strengthens Kenya’s position as a key aviation hub, with Qatar Airways and other international carriers also set to launch direct flights to Mombasa later this year in partnership with Kenya Airways.
