Mombasa is set to welcome back direct flights from Istanbul starting October 26, following an agreement between the county government and Turkish Airlines. Governor Abdulswamad Nassir confirmed the development after a meeting with the airline’s general manager, Oguzcan Yerli, in his office.

Nassir said the move is a significant boost for the coastal city’s tourism and logistics industries, which heavily rely on international connectivity.

“I am pleased to confirm that these flights will resume on October 26 – a major win for our tourism and logistics sectors,” said Governor Nassir.

He noted that the airline’s decision was influenced by Mombasa’s commitment to global partnerships that create economic openings for local communities. “Mombasa is open to the world, and we remain committed to building global connectivity that brings opportunities closer to the people,” he added.

Turkish Airlines, the national carrier of Turkey, is one of the world’s most expansive airlines. As of June 2024, it operates scheduled services to 352 destinations across Europe, Asia, Oceania, Africa and the Americas, including cargo routes.

The airline flies non-stop to more countries from a single airport than any other airline in the world, reaching 131 countries. Its cargo arm, Turkish Cargo, has a fleet of 24 aircraft and serves 82 destinations.

Headquartered at Atatürk Airport in Istanbul, the airline’s main operations are currently based at Istanbul Airport in Arnavutköy. Turkish Airlines has been part of the Star Alliance network since April 1, 2008.

Established in 1933 as Turkish State Airlines under the Ministry of National Defense, the airline has grown from a modest fleet that included Curtiss Kingbirds, Junkers F 13s and Tupolev ANT-9s.

Over the years, it moved under different ministries before becoming part of the Ministry of Transportation in 1938.

The direct flight between Istanbul and Mombasa covers a distance of 3,221 miles and takes approximately 7 hours and 15 minutes. Its return is expected to ease travel for tourists, business people, and cargo clients between Kenya and Turkey.