In a diplomatic resolution of a recent dispute, Tanzania has announced the reinstatement of approval for Kenya Airways to operate flights between Nairobi and Dar es Salaam. This decision comes after Tanzania temporarily banned Kenya Airways flights in response to a disagreement over cargo flights between the two nations.
Tensions escalated when Tanzania’s national carrier, Air Tanzania, requested permission to operate cargo flights to Kenya, but Nairobi declined the request. In a tit-for-tat response, Tanzania temporarily halted Kenya Airways flights as a reciprocal measure.
However, on Tuesday, Tanzania made a conciliatory move by granting approval for Kenya Airways to operate its passenger flights once again. The Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority issued a statement, saying, “Following this development, the aeronautical authorities of the United Republic of Tanzania hereby withdraw its decision of 15 January 2024, and therefore approval for Kenya Airways to operate… between Nairobi and Dar es Salaam is hereby restored.”
This decision marks a significant step towards normalizing relations between the two East African nations and allows for the resumption of flights connecting Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, with Tanzania’s commercial hub, Dar es Salaam.
Tanzania has been actively working on revitalizing its national carrier, Air Tanzania, since 2016. The efforts have involved expanding the airline’s fleet, routes, and operations, with a focus on tapping into both local and regional markets.
Kenya Airways, one of Africa’s largest airlines, considers Tanzania to be one of its vital markets. The country’s rich natural attractions, including mountains and vast wildlife reserves, draw more than a million tourists annually.
The decision to lift the ban on Kenya Airways flights is expected to promote economic cooperation and ease travel between the two nations, fostering closer ties in the East African region.
This diplomatic resolution underscores the importance of open dialogue and cooperation among neighboring countries to maintain smooth air travel operations, especially as the aviation industry continues to recover from the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
