The national carrier of Türkiye, Turkish Airlines, has reinstated direct flights to the Kenyan coastal city of Mombasa after a five-year break. This service marks a key milestone for the region’s tourism and trade sectors. The first flight landed early on 26 October 2025, greeted with a water cannon salute at Moi International Airport.
The Route and Service Details
Three flights will operate weekly between Istanbul and Mombasa. Each flight offers both passenger seats and a cargo capacity of up to eight tonnes, enabling not only travel but also trade in the region. The route restores full international connectivity from Europe and beyond to Kenya’s coastal hub.
Tourism Impacts at the Coast
The direct link makes it easier for European and other long-haul travellers to reach Mombasa. Tour operators anticipate increased arrivals, especially during Kenya’s peak season. With beautiful beaches, marine reefs, historic towns and cultural experiences, the coast stands ready to welcome visitors via a smoother air route. Local hotels, restaurants and tour businesses are gearing up for higher demand and longer stays.
Cargo and Trade Gains
The eight-ton cargo allowance per flight opens fresh channels for the export of Kenyan coastal products — such as flowers, seafood, textiles and agricultural goods — to Türkiye and onward to Europe. This strengthens the region’s trade profile and aligns with wider government goals to deepen export markets and streamline logistics.
Strengthening Mombasa’s Global Gateway Role
The move by Turkish Airlines positions Mombasa as more than a holiday destination. It expands the city’s role as a regional aviation and trade gateway. Improved connectivity supports business travel, cultural exchange and investment into the coastal region. It also complements strategies by the Kenya Airports Authority and tourism stakeholders to boost infrastructure and destination readiness.
Strategic Partnerships Behind the Return
The reinstatement follows months of negotiation between key players at the county and national levels. Local government, airport authorities and the airline collaborated to make the route viable again. Their efforts reflect a shared vision: a vibrant, globally connected Mombasa.
Traveler Experience Boosted
Passengers flying from Istanbul to Mombasa can expect a flight time of around seven hours. The direct route reduces lay-overs and travel fatigue, making the coast more accessible from Europe, the Middle East and Asia. For Kenya, the return of this service is a sign of recovery and renewed optimism in the aviation and tourism sectors.
What It Means for the Local Economy
Beyond tourism and export gains, the arrival of more visitors and cargo flows injects money into local supply chains—transport, hospitality, guide services, retail and more. Increased activity creates jobs and supports small and medium sized businesses along the coast. Over time, the ripple effect may strengthen sectors such as infrastructure, retail and cultural tourism.
Future Outlook
With strong demand and favourable conditions, there is potential for the route to expand in frequency and capacity. Should this happen, Mombasa stands to gain even more in terms of visitor numbers, cargo volume and economic impact. The renewed service is a message of commitment to East Africa and global connectivity.
Why It Matters Now
As the global travel industry recovers from recent disruptions, direct international routes are critical to re-energise destinations. For Kenya’s coast, linking easily to Europe via Istanbul revives an important travel pathway. It sends a clear signal that Mombasa is open for business and ready to welcome the world.
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