In a swift resolution to a brief diplomatic row, Air Tanzania has successfully secured coveted cargo rights in Kenya, while Kenya Airways regains its passenger route between Nairobi and Dar es Salaam. This development follows a request from Tanzania, leading Kenyan authorities to grant Air Tanzania the Fifth Freedom Traffic Right for all-cargo services, allowing seamless cargo operations in Kenya as part of its international flights.
This achievement marks a significant boost for Air Tanzania’s cargo operations and is poised to open up new trade opportunities between the two East African nations. However, the positive outcome also involved a reversal of Tanzania’s earlier decision, announced on Monday, to withdraw Kenya Airways’ third and fourth freedom traffic rights between Nairobi and Dar es Salaam. These rights are crucial, permitting airlines to transport passengers and freight between their home country and a foreign nation (Third Freedom) and between two foreign countries (Fourth Freedom).
The reinstatement of Kenya Airways’ passenger operations on the vital Dar es Salaam route is a result of granting cargo rights to Air Tanzania, addressing the concerns of Tanzanian authorities. This swift resolution ensures continued connectivity between the two countries, benefiting both passengers and businesses alike.
Hamza S. Johari, Director General of the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority, expressed optimism about the decision’s impact, stating, “This development demonstrates the spirit of cooperation and understanding between Tanzania and Kenya. We are confident that this decision will further strengthen aviation and trade relations between our two countries.”
The episode underscores the dynamic nature of air services agreements and emphasizes the importance of open communication between nations. With both countries now benefiting from the new agreement, the skies between Tanzania and Kenya appear clear for continued growth and cooperation in the aviation sector.
