Kenya Airways (KQ) has announced the launch of direct flights from Nairobi to London’s Gatwick Airport, scheduled to commence on July 2, 2025. The addition increases the airline’s frequency to London from its current seven weekly flights to 10, providing passengers with more options for seamless travel between East Africa and the United Kingdom.
The new route will operate thrice weekly—Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday—with departures from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at 23:45, landing at Gatwick Airport (LGW) at 06:55 the next morning. The return flights will depart Gatwick at 12:10 on Monday and Thursday, arriving in Nairobi at 21:30. This new service will complement the existing daily Kenya Airways flights to London Heathrow, offering passengers a choice of two non-stop London destinations.
Kenya Airways Group Managing Director and CEO Allan Kilavuka stated that the new route is part of the airline’s growth strategy, which aims to enhance connectivity for travelers and expand its footprint in key international markets. “The United Kingdom is essential and strategic for Kenya Airways and Kenya. It provides a gateway for trade, tourism, education, business, leisure travel, and diaspora connections,” Kilavuka said. He added that the airline’s aim is to cater to increasing passenger demand and provide tailored schedules to suit travelers’ needs.
Gatwick Airport, located just 47.5 kilometers south of Central London, is an important hub for passengers traveling to and from southern England. The addition of Gatwick flights will streamline access to Kenya Airways’ vast African network via its hub at JKIA, facilitating smoother travel for both leisure and business passengers.
Tickets for the Nairobi-Gatwick route are now available via the airline’s website and travel agents, with the first flights expected to strengthen Kenya Airways’ competitive position in the UK market.
