Overview
AirKenya Express is one of East Africa’s most established regional airlines, specializing in connecting Nairobi’s Wilson Airport with Kenya’s top safari parks, scenic reserves, and key cities. AirKenya is renowned for its rugged bush-ready fleet, flexible group and charter options, and seamless connections with partner airlines in Uganda and Tanzania, making it a favorite for both leisure travelers and the safari industry.
Key Destinations
From its main hub at Wilson Airport (Nairobi), AirKenya operates scheduled flights and charters to:
- Masai Mara (multiple airstrips)
- Amboseli National Park
- Samburu National Reserve
- Meru National Park
- Loisaba, Lewa Downs, Nanyuki
- Kisumu
- Eldoret, Kitale
- Mombasa, Diani Beach
Regional Connections:
Through Regional Air Services (Tanzania) and Aerolink Uganda, AirKenya can seamlessly ticket passengers for flights to Serengeti, Kilimanjaro, Arusha, and top Ugandan parks, providing a unified circuit for cross-border safaris.
Fleet Overview
AirKenya’s fleet is one of the most bush-capable in Africa, chosen specifically for the region’s challenging airstrips and safari needs.
- Dash 8-202: Modern, pressurized, 37–39 seat twin turboprop; ideal for busier routes and group travel.
- Dash 7-100: Four-engine, up to 50 passengers; legendary for short takeoff and landing (STOL), can reach the most remote strips.
- Twin Otter DHC-6-300: Rugged, versatile, 16–19 seats, perfect for rough or short airstrips and flexible charters.
- Cessna Grand Caravan C208B: 11–12 seats, efficient and reliable for small groups, private charters, or off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Fleet Strengths:
- All aircraft have high wings and large windows for scenic views.
- Short-field and unprepared airstrip capability.
- Flexible capacities, suitable for individual travelers to large groups.
- Maintained to international and Kenyan safety standards.
The AirKenya Experience
- Safari-Optimized Schedules:
Early morning departures to maximize time in the bush; return flights after lunch for optimal safari logistics. - Smooth Connections:
Designed for onward journeys with Regional Air (TZ) and Aerolink (UG) for a full East African safari circuit. - Baggage Policy:
Generally, 15 kg per person in soft bags is standard, including hand luggage. Some routes may allow more; always check in advance. - In-Flight Comfort:
Friendly crew, clean cabins, large windows, and a chance to spot wildlife even before you land.
Booking & Check-In
- Booking:
Reserve directly via airkenya.com, through travel agents, or tour operators. - Check-In:
At Wilson Airport and most safari airstrips, check-in closes 60 minutes before departure. - Online Check-In:
Available for major routes to speed up airport formalities.
Safety & Reliability
- AirKenya is regulated by the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) and maintains high safety standards, with frequent audits and pilot training tailored to East African conditions.
- Experienced pilots and engineering teams with deep expertise in bush flying.
- Strong reputation for on-time performance and operational flexibility.
Partnerships & Regional Network
- East African Connection:
AirKenya, Regional Air Services, and Aerolink Uganda collaborate to enable circuit bookings across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda—ideal for multi-country safaris. - Group & Charter Options:
AirKenya caters for special interest groups, families, incentives, and private charters, with custom flight timings and routings available.
Why Choose AirKenya?
- Best bush access: Dash 7 and Twin Otter aircraft reach remote airstrips others cannot.
- Flexible and reliable: Wide range of aircraft and schedules to fit any safari plan.
- Scenic flying: High wings and large windows mean every flight is part of your safari experience.
- Regional reach: Seamless connections across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
- Strong local presence: Decades of experience, with deep relationships with Kenya’s safari industry.
Contact Information
| Office | Details |
|---|---|
| Kenya (HQ) | P.O. Box 30357 – 00100, Nairobi Phone: +254 20 391 6000 Email: info@airkenya.com |
| Tanzania | Regional Air Services, Arusha Phone: +255 784 285 753/754 Email: resvns@regional.co.tz |
| Uganda | Aerolink Uganda, Entebbe Phone: +256 31 7333000 Email: info@aerolinkuganda.com |
Tips for Travelers
- Book early in peak safari season (July–October, December–March).
- Double-check airstrip assignments for your lodge or camp, especially in the Masai Mara.
- Use soft bags—luggage holds are small and irregularly shaped.
- Arrive early for check-in, especially if departing from Wilson Airport or connecting between airlines.
- Ask about charters for groups, special interests, or unique routes.