By Moses Adongo
SafariLink has today launched their maiden flight on Kisumu- Nairobi route in a ceremony that was presided over by CS Najib Balala. CS Balala was flanked by Kenya Tourism Board officials, Kisumu County Deputy Governor Dr. Ochieng Owili and other county officials.
SafariLink is the third airline to be launched in Kisumu since Governor Anyang Nyongo took over office. It however joins other five birds; Silverstone Air, Jambojet Limited, Kenya Airways, Fly540 and Freedom Airline Express Limited, that operate at the Kisumu International Airport.
The increasing number of airlines opening in Kisumu has put the lake side city on the map as fast growing into regional transport and economic hub. Speaking at the Kisumu International Airport, CS Balala said the launch will allow travelers make connections from Kisumu to key tourism destinations in the country.
“My ministry through the Kenya Tourism Board is actively working with all 47 Counties to empower them on how to package and position their tourism products in order to attract visitors,” added Balala.
Kisumu County Governor Prof. Peter Anyang Nyong’, who was represented by his deputy, welcomed the arrival of the airline to Kisumu noting that it was a clear indication of the prevailing business opportunities in the county for investors.
Also present at the event was former Prime Minister Raila Odinga who asked the Kisumu Airport to open up as a regional hub to handle direct flights to other East Africa major towns.
The arrival of the airline offers a welcome relief to travelers who contribute to the general economic well-being of the region. Speaking during the launch, Kisumu County minister of Transport noted that the arrival of SafariLink is going to come with stabilization of the prizing regime in for the industry which has been very erratic as well as spreading flight periods evenly through the day.
The launch of the SafariLink airline will see it fly twice a day between Wilson Airport in Nairobi and Kisumu International Airport. Travelers from the capital city will part with Ksh3500. only while a return ticket will cost Ksh7000. Bookings will be available online or through their offices located at West End Mall.
