Mayor Sam Okello receives the KQ Embraer team at the Kisumu International Airport
YOU can now fly directly from Kisimu to other international destinations. This was made possible following the launch of a large capacity plane at the Kisumu International Airport yesterday. The plane, Embraer 190, with a capacity of 96 passengers, is an extension of the 72-passenger capacity E170, which has been plying the route.
Kisumu Kenya Airways station officer Raphael Otwoma said the plane has the latest technology for burning fuel, thus environmental-friendly. Otwoma said air travellers to the lakeside town have increased by 28.8 per cent. “We shall now have a flight leaving in the morning, midday, evening and late in the evening at 18: 25pm,” he added.
Captain Kiki Onyonka and Simon Musau said the new plane is fully- automated. “It does not use cables but electronic system to move all the surfaces,” said Captain Musau. ”It also has an In-flight Entertainment System for all the passengers aboard,” added Onyonka.
Kisumu airport manager Joseph Okumu said transit shades and cargo houses are now available at the airport, making it possible to accommodate international flights. “The airport is now able to accommodate international departures and landings as well as international cargo lines,” he said.
Okumu called on other air transport operators to take advantage of the ultra-modern technology at airport and ply the route. “Currently, we handle 24 flights per day but with time, we are looking forward to an increase in the frequency,” he said.
Kisumu Mayor Sam Okello, who presided over the launch, said: ”The plane will now enhance our connection to the outside world and boost business in the region. The expanded airport will also open up the western Kenya region to tourists and investors.”
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