‍DALLAS – Qatar Airways (QR) and Kenya Airways (KQ) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking the beginning of a strategic partnership.

The partnership includes a comprehensive codeshare agreement and increased flights between the East African state and QR’s hub, Hamad International Airport (DOH). 

Qatar Airways is indeed building a presence on the African continent. In fact, in August last year, it took a 25% stake in the privately owned South African carrier, Airlink (4Z). The DOH-based airline is also in the process of taking a 49% stake in Rwanda’s flag carrier, RwandAir (WB). However, this transaction is not yet complete. 

“This partnership is yet another demonstration of our deepening ties with the African region. Today’s agreement, which comes as we celebrate 20 years of flying to Kenya, is coupled with our recognisable record of partnerships across the continent, most recently through our investment in Airlink. Our growing collaboration with our African counterparts ensures that Qatar Airways continues to contribute to the continent’s rapidly evolving aviation and economic ecosystem.” Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer said.

The signing of this agreement took place in DOH today, between Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, Kenya Airways Group Managing Director and CEO, Mr. Allan Kilavuka.

“This partnership perfectly aligns with our airline’s robust turnaround strategy, which saw Kenya Airways’ return to profit for the first time in more than a decade earlier this year. The collaboration will also help expedite Kenya Airways’ efforts to boost tourism and air cargo activities, turning these and others into pivotal economic growth propellers for Kenya and the East African region.” Kenya Airways Group Managing Director and CEO, Allan Kilavuka, said.

Under the partnership, QR will introduce a third daily frequency between DOH and Nairobi (NBO) through a codeshare with KQ. This new service will be complemented by the launch of KQ-operated, QR-marketed flights between Mombasa (MBA) and DOH during the upcoming winter season. 

The airlines will also codeshare on both networks to offer seamless connections.And a greater choice for travellers from around the world. In addition, QR and KQ will look to develop collaboration in other parts of the business, including cargo, airport and ground services, product development, loyalty programs, procurement, as well as maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO).