President Kenyatta to Launch Kenya Airways' Maiden Nonstop Flight to the US Next Week

President Kenyatta is next week expected to preside over the launch of Kenya Airways' inaugural direct flight to the United States.

Speaking to the media at State Lodge, Kakamega on Sunday, State House Spokesperson Kanze Dena said the President will officially launch KQ's maiden nonstop flight to New York at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on October 28th.

She said: “The President will be excited to join Kenyans at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to launch the first direct flight from Africa to New York.”

The spokeswoman said the nonstop flights to JFK International Airport will open the country to more investors, tourists and strength trade ties between Kenya and the US.

Dena further announced that President Uhuru will give two Kenyan youth who have excelled in different fields tickets to board the inaugural flight.

Africa’s first female Dreamliner captain, Irene Koki is expected to commandeer the inaugural flight.

Kenya Airways becomes the first airline to operate direct flights between East Africa and the US.

The national airline has set aside two Dreamliner aircrafts for the daily flights to New York — a night flight from JKIA and a mid-day one from JFK international airport.

The planes will carry 234 passengers; 30 at the premium world-class and 204 in the economy section.