Nairobi, Kenya| Jambojet, Kenya’s leading low-cost carrier, is set to strengthen its operations on the Kisumu-Nairobi route with the addition of a ninth aircraft, a Dash 8 Q400, slated to arrive next week.
This strategic move underscores the airline’s commitment to meeting growing passenger demand and enhancing connectivity in one of its key markets.
Scaling Up Operations to Meet Demand
The acquisition of the Dash 8 Q400 will enable Jambojet to increase its daily flights between Kisumu and Nairobi from six to seven, with plans to scale up to eight flights on peak days.
This expansion is a direct response to the robust demand on the route, which ranks as Jambojet’s third-largest market, following Nairobi and Mombasa.
According to Jambojet’s Chief Executive Officer, Karanja Ndegwa, Kisumu contributes approximately 18% of the airline’s annual passenger traffic.
Over the past decade, the Kisumu-Nairobi route has facilitated the travel of 1.53 million passengers, with 254,000 passengers flown in the last year alone.
“Kisumu has shown remarkable consistency over the years, solidifying its position as a critical market for us,” Ndegwa noted.
Efficiency Driving Success
A key factor in Jambojet’s dominance on the Kisumu-Nairobi route is its operational efficiency, particularly the rapid turnaround times at Kisumu International Airport.
Ndegwa highlighted that aircraft landing in Kisumu can disembark passengers, complete necessary checks, and board new passengers within just 25 minutes before departing for Nairobi.
“This efficiency has significantly boosted our productivity and allows us to maintain a reliable schedule for our passengers,” he explained.
The quick turnaround times, combined with the addition of the new aircraft, position Jambojet to enhance service reliability and accommodate the increasing number of travelers on this high-demand route.
Strategic Expansion Plans
Beyond the immediate increase in flight frequency, Jambojet is eyeing Kisumu International Airport as a hub for future route expansion.
Ndegwa revealed that the airline is actively exploring new destinations to leverage Kisumu’s strategic location in Western Kenya. One potential route under consideration is a direct flight from Kisumu to Juba, South Sudan.
However, Ndegwa noted that the route’s viability is still under review. “Before opening a new route, we consider multiple factors to determine its feasibility. While Kisumu to Juba shows promise, we don’t yet have the numbers to support it, but we keep revisiting this daily,” he said.
Additionally, Jambojet is monitoring the possibility of resuming its Goma route in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which was suspended due to safety concerns.
“Goma was a very strong route for us. When safety is assured, we will definitely consider returning,” Ndegwa affirmed.
The airline’s focus on Kisumu as a pivotal hub reflects its broader strategy to expand its regional footprint while maintaining a strong domestic network.
A Decade of Growth in Kisumu
Since its inception, Jambojet has played a pivotal role in connecting Kisumu to Nairobi and other destinations, fostering economic and social ties in the region.
The airline’s investment in the Kisumu-Nairobi route has not only provided affordable travel options but also supported tourism, business, and trade in Western Kenya.
The addition of the Dash 8 Q400, known for its reliability and efficiency, is expected to further enhance Jambojet’s ability to serve this vibrant market.
Commitment to Affordable and Reliable Travel
Jambojet’s expansion comes at a time when demand for affordable air travel in Kenya continues to grow.
By increasing flight frequency and exploring new routes, the airline aims to maintain its position as a market leader in the low-cost carrier segment.
The Dash 8 Q400, with its capacity to carry up to 78 passengers, is well-suited for high-frequency, short-haul routes like Kisumu-Nairobi, offering both cost efficiency and passenger comfort.
As Jambojet prepares to welcome its ninth aircraft, the airline remains focused on delivering value to its customers while contributing to the growth of Kenya’s aviation sector.
With Kisumu as a cornerstone of its operations, Jambojet is poised to continue its upward trajectory, connecting communities and driving economic development across the region.
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