Tourism and trade between Kenya and Tanzania is expected to receive a boost as Jambojet begins its new Mombasa-Zanzibar route on July 1st, 2024.
The route will offer direct flights with fares starting from USD 109, making it at least 40 percent cheaper than current standard fares.
According to Jambojet, it addresses the high demand and lack of direct flights between Mombasa and Zanzibar, providing a convenient alternative to lengthy road, ferry journeys, and indirect flight routes.
Jambojet will initially operate four non-stop flights per week, with plans to increase to six.
This will cover the journey in 55 minutes each way, significantly reducing current travel time.
These schedules are designed for seamless connections to and from Nairobi on other Jambojet flights, and to and from Dubai on Kenya Airways and Fly Dubai. Additionally, multiple airlines offer connections from Mombasa to European cities such as Frankfurt and Milan.
Tanzania's Acting High Commissioner to Kenya, Yohanna Kibesse, highlighted the route’s potential to strengthen historical ties and economic opportunities, particularly in tourism and hospitality.
" This new route will facilitate easier travel and convenience for our citizens, encourage tourism, and enhance trade between Zanzibar and Mombasa," said Kibesse during a meeting with Jambojet MD and CEO Karanja Ndegwa.
Jambojet MD and CEO Karanja Ndegwa added that the route would significantly reduce travel time and cost for passengers, promoting tourism and business between Kenya and Tanzania, thereby strengthening bilateral relations and economic ties.
"We are excited to launch the Mombasa-Zanzibar route, which aligns with our growth strategy and enhances affordable and convenient connectivity within East Africa," said Ndegwa.
Tanzania is among Kenya’s top three tourism source markets. Last year, 157,818 Tanzanians visited the country while 128,753 Kenyans travelled to Tanzania between January and August.
According to Tanzania's 2023 Economic Survey, the value of Kenya's exports to the country experienced the biggest growth between the East African Community (EAC), with goods worth KES 57.7 billion.
The new route is a vital part of Jambojet's expansion strategy unveiled during its 10th-anniversary celebrations.
It underscores the airline’s commitment to broadening its reach within East Africa and beyond.
Flights are now open for booking through the Jambojet website, which supports mobile money and card payments for customers in both Kenya and Tanzania.
