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Kenyan authorities have agreed to allow Zambia Airways to fly into Nairobi, reversing a previous decision that had strained bilateral relations.
The move comes after the Zambian Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) issued a notice to suspend all Kenya Airways flights into Zambia in response to Kenya’s refusal to grant Zambia Airways access to Nairobi.
Zambia Monitor earlier reported that the CAA had announced the suspension following the Kenyan Civil Aviation Authority’s (KCAA) denial of landing rights for Zambia Airways.
However, in a statement issued in Lusaka on Saturday, Zambia’s Minister of Transport and Logistics, Frank Tayali, expressed joy at the resolution of the issue.
Tayali hailed the decision as a testament to the strong camaraderie between the two nations, describing Kenya and Zambia as good neighbours with shared interests.
He acknowledged the efforts of his office, which worked around the clock to ensure the matter was resolved amicably, and commended the CAA for its professional approach to handling the dispute.
“This development is a reflection of the brotherly relations between our countries. Both Zambia and Kenya stand to gain a lot by working together in this way, especially as we aim to enhance regional connectivity,” Tayali said.
The minister stressed that improved air transport links between Zambia and Kenya would not only connect the two countries but also foster greater regional integration.
He reiterated Zambia’s commitment to transforming the region into a hub of connectivity, ensuring that East and Southern Africa are better linked than any other part of Africa.
“Air transport is a crucial avenue for both countries to connect with the wider region, creating new opportunities for trade, tourism, and investment,” Tayali added.
He called on both Zambia Airways and Kenya Airways to adhere to regulations that promote efficient, safe, and secure skies, while also maintaining high standards of customer satisfaction.
In response to Zambia’s suspension notice, the Kenyan Civil Aviation Authority confirmed that it had no objection to Zambia Airways operating flights into Nairobi.
This diplomatic breakthrough comes just days before the CAA’s suspension of Kenya Airways, which was set to take effect on October 8, 2024.
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