Safarilink Addresses Governor Nyong'o's Ksh.19,000 One-Way Flight Fare to Kisumu

In response to the concerns raised by Governor Anyang' Nyong'o regarding the airfare charged for his one-way flight from Nairobi to Kisumu, Safarilink has issued a statement to clarify the situation. The airline explained that the Kisumu route fares vary from Ksh.5,500 to Ksh.19,000, depending on factors such as demand, peak travel days, and booking time.

Governor Nyong'o was charged Ksh.19,000 because he booked the last available seat directly from the airline's website the night before the flight.

As a private limited company with 19 years of experience, Safarilink has a responsibility to its shareholders to earn profits. The company also highlighted that private airlines face multiple taxes and levies, including VAT on fuel and engine overhauls.

In response, Governor Nyong'o announced that the Kisumu County Government staff will no longer use Safarilink for any trips starting from February 9, 2023, due to the "excessively high flight charges." The Governor questioned Safarilink's actions and whether there is a consumer protection organization to address the issue. He noted that the usual airfares for flights have been between Ksh.5,500 and Ksh.7,000.