The government is on course to implement a National Aviation Policy aimed at making Kenya’s aviation sector globally competitive, Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomren has said.
Murkomen spoke today while presiding over a ceremony to mark national carrier, Kenya Airways 46 years in the aviation industry by rolling out a loyalty programme aimed at rewarding its customers for choosing to fly with them.
The CS said the policy will foster growth of the aviation business in Kenya and create an enabling environment for job creation in the sector to make KQ a recognised regional leader in the industry.
“This policy will ensure airlines have the freedom to take advantage of market opportunities particularly within the African Continental Free Trade Area as in line with Vision 2030 in the path to growth.” Murkomen said.
He added that the policy will maximize the sector’s contribution to the economy and enhance connectivity at national and international level.
On his part, KQ Chief Executive Allan Kilavuka said it is time the airline acknowledges their customers and business partners by making them earn points every time they fly to different destinations of the world.
“For 46 years, millions of customers have chosen us. Our customers have chosen us as their airline of choice.” Kilavuka said.
Murkomen hailed the innovation terming it a perfect step towards turning around the fortunes of Kenya Airways in the journey of making it more competitive in the global front.
“It is worth noting that the value of loyalty programs was evident during the Covid-19 pandemic when airlines used the valuation of such programs to access multi-billion dollars in loans.” CS Murkomen added.
He said the government is working with the board and management of Kenya Airways towards repatriating revenues generated from some of its destinations to ensure a lasting solution to this issue and enhance stability, sustainability and profitability of the airline.
On expansion, Murkomen said the government has tabled Bilateral Air Service Agreements between Kenya and eight other countries meant to enhance connectivity and providing the airline with an opportunity to expand its route networks by directly operating both scheduled and non-scheduled services to new markets.
The chief guest gave an assurance that the government was committed to working with the airline, stakeholders and investment partners towards transformation of KQ into a global leader in this ‘very competitive’ industry through structural and infrastructural development as well as policy and regulatory adjustments.
The ‘Asante Reward Program’ offers four loyalty cards which include Ruby, Silver, Gold and Platinum which enables users to earn points which can be redeemed later to enjoy exciting rewards.
