RSS 2.0 FeedFebruary 2010 Vol 5, African Airlines
Kenya Airways partners with Zambezi Airlines
KENYA Airways has signed a commercial partnership agreement with Zambezi Airlines which will see the latter introduce thrice weekly flights between Lusaka and Nairobi.
KENYA Airways has signed a commercial partnership agreement with Zambezi Airlines which will see the latter introduce thrice weekly flights between Lusaka and Nairobi.
Announcing the partnership at a media briefing in Lusaka yesterday, Kenya Air Airways country manager Rose Kiseli said the move was driven by the desire to exploit Zambia’s geographical location.
“The decision to partner with Zambezi Airlines was driven by the desire of the management of Zambezi Airlines to pursue world class aviation standards and not to under rate the potential known to all of Zambia’s geographical location as a regional hub,” Kiseli said.
“Partnerships that foster the development of the aviation sector in Africa must be focused on delivering opportunities for growth and value to local airlines and we are confident that this alliance will remain mindful of this.”
She said the alliance reaffirmed Kenya Airways’ commitment to supporting Africa’s aviation industry and would enable Zambezi Airlines passengers to connect to Africa and the world through the Kenya Airways hub at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
Kiseli said access to a robust route network for the two carriers would cushion low seasons as well as create avenues for in bound and outbound economic movement for Zambia and Kenya.
“Consolidation will strengthen the industry. The round of consolidation experienced in the last few years has been a step in the right direction,” said Kiseli.
Speaking earlier Zambezi Airlines chief executive officer Don Macdonald said the partnership would enable the airline to be seen on flight schedules globally as Kenya Airways was a member of the global Skyteam airline alliance.
“What this means is that from today (yesterday), travellers throughout the world will be able to see our flight schedules and be able to plan their trip utilising the best connections possible.”
He also disclosed that Zambezi airlines have acquired a Boeing 737-3000 series aircraft from GECAS as part of the airline’s expansion programme.
