January 11, 2018: The national carrier, Kenya Airways is scheduled to fly non-stop flight from Nairobi to New York on October 28 this year. The airlines has announced the opening of booking of these flights. Kenya Airways will be the first airline to offer a non-stop flight between East Africa and the US.

According to a statement from the company, the airline already serves Africa, Europe, Middle-East, Indian sub-continent and Asia. The opening of the US destination completes an essential piece for Kenya Airways’ network, cementing its position as one of the leading African carriers.

“This is an exciting moment for us. It fits within our strategy to attract corporate and high-end tourism traffic from the world to Kenya and Africa. We are honored to contribute to the economic growth of Kenya and East Africa.” said Sebastian Mikosz, managing director and CEO, Kenya Airways Group.

With over 40 American multinationals located in Nairobi and many more across Africa, the launch of daily flights is expected to further spur trade between America and Africa.

Kenya Airways will offer its customers a unique travel experience between two great gateways. It will be the fastest connection from East Africa to New York, with 15 hours duration eastbound and 14 hours westbound. The ultra-long-haul flight, unique to Kenya Airways network, will require 4 Pilots and 12 Flight attendants as well as 85 tonnes of fuel each way, making it an exceptional operation.

The airline will operate Boeing 787 Dreamliner with a capacity of 234 passengers. This flight will allow connections to and from over 40 African destinations through Kenya Airways hub in Nairobi.