Turkish Airlines has officially resumed direct flights to Moi International Airport in Mombasa, marking a major milestone for Kenya’s coastal tourism and international connectivity.
The inaugural flight from Istanbul touched down on the dawn of October 27, 2025, receiving a ceremonial water-cannon salute symbolizing renewed confidence in Mombasa as a global gateway.
The airline suspended its Mombasa route five years ago due to global travel disruptions and reduced demand triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Its return, now with three weekly direct flights, reconnects the South Coast to Istanbul, one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs, offering smooth onward links to over 120 international destinations across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas.
Kenya Airports Authority celebrated the moment, posting, “Touchdown in Mombasa! Turkish Airlines is back, direct from Istanbul to Moi International Airport! Received with a stunning water cannon salute this morning, the renewed route connects Kenya’s coast to the world, fueling tourism, trade, and adventure!”
Tourism stakeholders have lauded the development, noting that the route strengthens the Coast’s position in long-haul travel markets.
The direct access is expected to boost arrivals to beach destinations such as Diani, Nyali, Watamu and Malindi, supporting hotels, tour operators, and community-based tourism enterprises.
With coastal tourism rebounding, the flights are also seen as a strategic step in diversifying Kenya’s source markets beyond its traditional European base.
Beyond tourism, the route brings renewed economic potential through enhanced cargo capacity, offering exporters including those in horticulture, fisheries, and fresh produce faster access to markets via Istanbul’s global logistics network.
Trade officials say this will support Kenya’s economic diplomacy and deepen ties with Türkiye, a country that has steadily grown its footprint in East Africa.
The resumption strengthens bilateral cooperation, aligns with Kenya’s ambition to expand international air connectivity, and signals growing investor confidence in the region. For the Coast, it represents not just the return of a flight but the reopening of a vital bridge to the world.
