Yusuf Hassan
Business July 29, 2025

Boost for tourism as direct flights between Istanbul and Mombasa are set to resume in October

Boost for tourism as direct flights between Istanbul and Mombasa are set to resume in October
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir holds talks with the Turkish Airlines General Manager Oguzcan Yerli on July 28, 2025. (Handout)
Direct flights between Istanbul and Mombasa are set to resume on October 26, marking a key step in boosting connectivity and economic growth for the coastal city.

The confirmation came after Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir held a meeting with Turkish Airlines general manager Oguzcan Yerli at his office on Monday.

Governor Abdulswamad revealed that the airline acknowledged the county’s support in helping make the return of the direct route a reality.

“I am pleased to confirm that these flights will resume on October 26 – a major win for our tourism and logistics sectors,” Abdulswamad said.

He added that Mombasa remains open to international partnerships and continues to invest in opportunities that benefit its people.

“Mombasa is open to the world, and we remain committed to building global connectivity that brings opportunities closer to the people,” he said.

Turkish Airlines, which serves more countries directly than any other airline globally, currently operates in 131 countries. As of June 2024, it offers flights to 352 destinations, including passenger and cargo services across all continents.

The airline’s cargo division, Turkish Cargo, has 24 dedicated cargo aircraft flying to 82 global destinations. Its main hub is at Istanbul Airport in Arnavutköy, with headquarters located at the former Atatürk Airport in Yeşilköy.

Founded in 1933 as Turkish State Airlines under the Ministry of National Defense, the airline later shifted to the Ministry of Public Works in 1935, before being moved to the Ministry of Transportation in 1938.

It joined the Star Alliance network in April 2008 and has since grown into one of the largest and most connected carriers worldwide.

The direct flight between Istanbul and Mombasa covers 3,221 miles, with a flight duration of approximately 7 hours and 15 minutes. The resumed service is expected to make travel and freight movement smoother for tourists, traders and investors between Kenya and Turkey.
Tourism Abdulswamad Nassir Direct flights Turkish Airlines

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