Kenya has resumed negotiations on direct flights to the US in a bid to boost tourist and trade numbers. Transport and Infrastructure Cabinet Secretary Michael Kamau said talks have been initiated with the US government to allow flights between the two countries.
‘‘We are working closely with the US ambassador with the intention to seeKenya AirwaysBoeing 777-300ER start flying to the US soon,’’ said Mr Kamau during the naming of the airline’s new aeroplane at JKIA on Monday. He did not indicate how far the talks had gone. Kenya has been working to achieve Category One status from the US government, which would allow direct flights between Kenya and the US. The signing of a new Civil Aviation Bill 2013 earlier in the year is seen as a step towards addressing some of the shortcomings cited by the US government. Insecurity is one of the key challenges that have seen the US Federal Aviation Administration deny Kenya the status.
US-based airlines have been eyeing Kenya as a potential growth market. One such company, Delta Airways, was set to launch direct flights in 2009. However, concern over safety and security saw the US government deny the airline permission to launch flights just days to the event.
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