How to Book a Local Flight in Kenya

Book a local flight in Kenya easily with this guide—learn about top domestic airlines, booking tips, and how to get the best fares for your next trip.

Introduction

Local air travel in Kenya has become increasingly accessible, efficient, and popular. Whether you’re flying from Nairobi to Mombasa, Kisumu, Eldoret, or Malindi, domestic airlines offer fast and convenient alternatives to long-distance road travel. However, many travelers—especially first-time flyers—still find the booking process confusing. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you how to book a local flight in Kenya, including what to consider, how to compare fares, and what to expect during the booking process.

Why Book a Local Flight in Kenya?

Kenya’s road network is vast, but sometimes road travel can be time-consuming and unpredictable due to traffic, weather, or road conditions. Local flights offer a time-saving alternative and often come with competitive prices if booked early. Business travelers, tourists, students, and locals frequently use domestic airlines to cover long distances in a short amount of time. Booking a local flight in Kenya is also a great way to explore remote tourist destinations like Lamu, Diani, or Samburu that are not easily accessible by road.

Popular Domestic Airlines in Kenya

When preparing to book a local flight in Kenya, it’s helpful to be aware of the main domestic airlines that operate within the country. These include:

• Jambojet – A low-cost carrier owned by Kenya Airways. It flies to major towns such as Mombasa, Kisumu, Eldoret, Malindi, Lamu, and Diani.
• Skyward Express – Known for its regular flights to Lodwar, Kakamega, Kitale, and Lamu.
• Fly540 – Offers affordable flights to Nairobi, Eldoret, Kisumu, Mombasa, and Lodwar.
• Safarilink Aviation – Specializes in flights to tourist destinations such as Amboseli, Maasai Mara, Diani, and Nanyuki.
• AirKenya Express – Connects Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to national parks and reserves including Maasai Mara and Samburu.

What You Need Before Booking

To book a local flight in Kenya, you’ll need the following:

• Valid National ID or Passport: For Kenyan citizens, a national ID is sufficient. Foreigners will need a valid passport or visa.
• Mobile Number and Email Address: To receive booking confirmations and updates.
• Payment Method: Most airlines accept M-PESA, Visa/MasterCard, and mobile banking options.
• Travel Dates: Be clear about your travel dates and times to compare availability and fares.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Book a Local Flight in Kenya

1. Decide on Your Travel Destination and Dates

Start by knowing exactly where you want to go and when. Flexibility with your travel dates can help you find cheaper fares, especially during off-peak days or times.

2. Compare Flight Options

Use online platforms such as:

• Travelstart Kenya
• Jumia Travel
• Google Flights
• Skyscanner

These platforms help you compare flight options from various airlines on one screen. You can filter by time, price, duration, and preferred airline.

Alternatively, visit airline websites directly if you already know which one you prefer.

3. Check the Luggage Allowance and Fees

Each airline has different luggage policies. For example:

• Jambojet: Hand luggage (up to 10kg) is usually free, but checked baggage requires extra payment.
• Fly540 and Skyward: May include free checked baggage depending on the fare type.

Read the luggage policy carefully before completing your booking to avoid surprise fees at the airport.

4. Make the Booking Online

Once you’ve chosen your flight, go to the airline’s official website or a trusted third-party travel site. Enter your details, choose your seat (if applicable), and proceed to payment.

You can pay using:

• M-PESA: Most preferred method in Kenya. Enter the Paybill number given by the airline and follow the instructions.
• Credit/Debit Card: Enter card details directly on the booking platform.
• Bank Transfer or Mobile Banking: Some platforms allow mobile banking payments.

5. Save or Print Your E-Ticket

After a successful payment, you will receive an email or SMS with your e-ticket or itinerary. Save this on your phone or print a hard copy for airport check-in.

Offline Booking Options

If you’re not comfortable booking online or lack internet access, you can book through:

• Travel Agencies: They charge a small service fee but help you handle the entire process.
• Airline Offices: Visit the nearest office for in-person booking and assistance.
• Airport Booking Desks: Some airlines allow same-day bookings at the airport, though availability may be limited.

Tips for Booking a Local Flight in Kenya

1. Book Early

Domestic flight fares in Kenya are generally cheaper when booked at least 1-2 weeks in advance. Prices can double or triple if booked last-minute, especially around public holidays and weekends.

2. Use M-PESA for Convenience

M-PESA is accepted by almost all local airlines and travel websites. It’s fast, secure, and eliminates the need for a credit card.

3. Choose the Right Airport

Some flights depart from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), while others use Wilson Airport, especially for flights to tourist regions. Always confirm the departure airport to avoid confusion.

4. Check COVID-19 or Health Requirements

Though most restrictions have been lifted, it’s good practice to carry a face mask and confirm if your airline requires any health documentation.

5. Arrive at the Airport Early

Arrive at least 90 minutes before your flight for domestic departures. Local airports are smaller, but check-in, security, and boarding procedures still take time.

After Booking: What to Expect at the Airport

• Check-in: You’ll need your ID and e-ticket. Some airlines offer online check-in 24 hours before departure.
• Security: Pass through security checks with your carry-on items.
• Boarding: Be alert to boarding announcements, as domestic airports often don’t have elaborate PA systems.
• Baggage Claim: Upon arrival, collect your luggage from the claim area, which is usually right after disembarkation.

Benefits of Booking Local Flights in Kenya

• Speed: Travel across the country in under an hour instead of spending 6–12 hours on the road.
• Safety: Air travel is generally safer compared to long-distance bus or matatu travel.
• Scenic Views: Flights to places like the coast or northern Kenya offer stunning aerial views of the Rift Valley, mountains, lakes, and plains.
• Convenience: Domestic terminals are less congested and flights are usually on time.

Challenges to Be Aware Of

While local flights in Kenya are generally reliable, here are a few issues to anticipate:

• Flight Delays: Occasionally due to weather or operational issues.
• Limited Routes: Some remote areas may have fewer flight options.
• Hidden Charges: Always read the fine print about baggage fees and ticket changes.

FAQs on How to Book a Local Flight in Kenya

1. How to book local flights in Kenya?
You can book online through airline websites like Jambojet, Safarilink, Skyward Express, or through apps like Wakanow and travel agents.

2. What documents do I need to fly locally in Kenya?
You need a national ID, passport, or valid driver’s license. Children may use birth certificates or school IDs.

3. What are the requirements for a local flight?
A valid ID, a flight ticket (digital or printed), and arriving at the airport 1–2 hours before departure are the main requirements.

4. How much is a local flight ticket?
Fares vary, but typical one-way tickets between Nairobi and Mombasa range from KSh 5,000–10,000 depending on season and airline.

5. How to pay for Jambojet via M-PESA?
Select M-PESA as payment during booking. Use Paybill 737700, account = booking reference. Complete within 15 minutes.

6. How much is the cheap flight from Nairobi to Mombasa (Jambojet)?
Prices can go as low as KSh 4,800–6,000 for one-way tickets if booked early or during promotions.

7. What liquids are allowed on domestic flights in Kenya?
Liquids under 100ml are allowed in hand luggage. Water bottles may be restricted—check with your airline.

8. What is the difference between Basic and Smart with Jambojet?
Basic includes only your seat and 10kg hand luggage. Smart adds checked baggage and possibly free seat selection or ticket changes.

9. Can a Kenyan travel to Tanzania without a passport?
Yes, but only with an East African Community (EAC) travel permit or a temporary travel document—not just an ID.

10. How to book a flight for beginners?
Visit the airline website, choose your route and date, fill in passenger details, select extras, pay (e.g. via M-PESA), and get a confirmation email or SMS.

11. Can I fly local with my driver’s license?
Yes. A valid Kenyan driver’s license is accepted as ID for domestic flights.

12. Do I need an ID for a local flight?
Yes, for check-in and boarding. National ID, passport, or driver’s license is required.

13. What is the cheapest way to book a flight ticket?
Book early, use comparison sites (e.g., Wakanow, Travelstart), watch for promos, and fly off-peak (mid-week or early morning).

14. How does Wakanow “Pay Small Small” work?
Wakanow lets you pay a deposit and complete the payment in installments before the travel date. A fee may apply.

15. How to book a flight?
Choose airline/agent > pick route & date > enter passenger info > select add-ons > pay (via card, M-PESA, or bank) > get ticket.

16. Can I pay a flight ticket with M-PESA?
Yes. Many local airlines accept M-PESA via Paybill. Confirm paybill details during booking.

17. Which airport does Jambojet fly from?
Jambojet operates from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Terminal 2, Nairobi.

18. Do children pay for flights?
Yes. Children under 2 may fly for free or at reduced rates without their own seat. Over 2 years usually pay 75–100% of the fare.

19. What is the cheapest means of transport from Mombasa to Nairobi?
SGR train is the cheapest (from KSh 500) followed by buses. Flights are faster but more expensive.

20. Which is the cheapest airline in Kenya?
Jambojet and Fly 748 offer some of the most affordable domestic flights in Kenya.

21. When can I book the cheapest flight?
Book 2–4 weeks in advance, fly on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, and avoid holidays for the lowest fares.

Related: How to Subscribe to Safaricom Corporate Postpay Package

Final Thoughts on How to Book a Local Flight in Kenya

Booking a local flight in Kenya has become easier thanks to online platforms, mobile money, and improved airline services. Whether you’re traveling for work, school, or leisure, flying saves time and offers a smooth experience if you plan ahead. Always compare airlines, book early, and understand the terms before paying. With these tips, you can confidently book a local flight in Kenya and enjoy fast, safe, and convenient domestic travel.