Connecting Safaris To The Sea With New Nairobi–Zanzibar And Wilson–Arusha Flights, Plus Special MKTE 2025 Fares
From bush safaris to white-sand beaches, Flightlink has been at the heart of seamless East African connectivity since 2001. With hubs in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Zanzibar, and now Nairobi, the airline continues to link travelers to iconic destinations across Kenya and Tanzania. As the countdown to the Magical Kenya Travel Expo (MKTE) begins, Flightlink is stepping up its presence with new routes, special fares, and a promise to deliver dreams “on time, every time.”
Go Places sat down with Captain Afzal Kermeli, Country Manager for Flightlink Kenya, to discuss the airline’s mission, expansion, and what customers can expect at MKTE and beyond
- Q: Could you introduce yourself and share your role at Flightlink?
A: My name is Captain Afzal Kermeli, the Country Manager for Flightlink Kenya. I oversee operations and management in Kenya, ensuring that our services deliver the safety, reliability, and punctuality that Flightlink is known for. - Q: Since 2001, Flightlink has been recognized for connecting travelers to East Africa’s most iconic safari and beach destinations. How does that mission continue today?
A: Our mission remains the same—to provide seamless connectivity across East Africa. We link travelers to Arusha, Zanzibar, Pemba, Serengeti, Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, and now Nairobi. By connecting bush and beach destinations, we support both tourism and business while generating value for Kenya, Tanzania, and the region. - Q: What sets Flightlink apart in East Africa’s aviation landscape?
A: Three things: safety, reliability, and punctuality. We operate a modern fleet, thrive on our on-time performance, and provide a seamless travel experience for passengers and agents. That’s why our slogan is: “Dreams delivered on time, every time.” - Q: You’re introducing new Kenya–Tanzania routes like Nairobi to Zanzibar and Wilson–Arusha. How does this expansion enhance regional travel?
A: These routes are game-changers. They give travelers—both local and international—direct access between Kenya and Tanzania’s most sought-after safari and beach destinations. For the travel trade, it means more opportunities to package bush-to-beach safaris and expand tourism offerings. - Q: Flightlink operates a modern ATR 72-500 fleet and emphasizes punctuality. How are you leveraging technology and fleet strategy to enhance customer experience?
A: Our ATR 72-500s seat 72 passengers comfortably and are designed for regional operations. On top of that, our website and mobile app make it easy for customers to book directly. It’s about making travel smooth, safe, and reliable from start to finish. - Q: As MKTE approaches, how is Flightlink positioning itself to support agents, buyers, and travelers?
A: We’ll be showcasing our special fares at MKTE, alongside highlighting our regional connectivity. Travel agents, overseas buyers, and local customers will see firsthand how Flightlink enhances safari and beach connections across East Africa. And yes—we’ll have a few surprises in store for our visitors. - Q: Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, what growth or innovations can customers expect?
A: We are preparing for fleet expansion, with new aircraft expected soon. We’ll also be introducing new routes across East Africa to strengthen connectivity. Customers can also look forward to more competitive fares and innovative services. - Q: For agents and travelers, what’s the top reason to book with Flightlink today?
A: It’s simple—reliability, safety, and on-time performance. Combine that with competitive fares and seamless bush-to-beach connections, and Flightlink is the go-to choice for East Africa. - Q: Flightlink and Go Places have partnered to boost visibility. How has this collaboration supported your brand?
A: Go Places has helped amplify our visibility locally, regionally, and internationally. Through their platforms, we’ve been able to showcase our routes, fares, and reliability to the wider travel market, which is vital for our continued growth.
About the Interviewee:
Captain Afzal Kermeli is the Country Manager for Flightlink Kenya. With operations spanning Kenya and Tanzania, Flightlink has been at the forefront of regional air connectivity since 2001, delivering safety, reliability, and punctuality for both business and leisure travelers across East Africa.
Interview by Nev Jiwani, Group Managing Director, Go Places
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