Air Tanzania has secured coveted cargo rights in Kenya, while Kenya Airways’ passenger route between Nairobi and Dar es Salaam has been restored, in a swift resolution to a brief diplomatic row.
Following Tanzania’s request, Kenyan authorities granted Air Tanzania the Fifth Freedom Traffic Right for all-cargo services, allowing the airline to pick up and drop off cargo in Kenya during international flights.
This significantly boosts Air Tanzania’s cargo operations and opens up new trade opportunities between the two countries.
However, the development also resulted in a reversal of the Tanzanian decision announced Monday to withdraw Kenya Airways’ third and fourth freedom traffic rights between Nairobi and Dar es Salaam.
These rights allow airlines to carry passengers and freight to and from their own country and a foreign country (third freedom) and between two foreign countries (fourth freedom).
By granting cargo rights to Air Tanzania, the Tanzanian authorities have addressed their concerns, allowing Kenya Airways to resume passenger service on the critical Dar es Salaam route.
This swift resolution ensures that the two East African countries maintain connectivity, which benefits both passengers and businesses.
“This development demonstrates the spirit of cooperation and understanding between Tanzania and Kenya,” said Hamza S. Johari, Director General of the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority. “We are confident that this decision will further strengthen aviation and trade relations between our two countries.”
The sudden change in policy underlines the dynamic nature of air service agreements and the importance of open communication between nations.
With both countries now benefiting from the new agreement, the way appears clear for Tanzania and Kenya to continue their aviation growth and cooperation.