Kenya Airways and Vietnam Airlines Renew Codeshare Agreement, Boosting Connectivity

Nairobi, Kenya – Kenya Airways and Vietnam Airlines announced today they have renewed their codeshare agreement, in a move that will enhance connectivity and cooperation between the two carriers. The renewed deal comes as Kenya Airways continues to expand its network reach across Asia, leveraging partnerships to give its customers greater access and options.

Under the renewed codeshare, Vietnam Airlines will place its airline code on Kenya Airways flights between Nairobi and Bangkok, while Kenya Airways will place its code on Vietnam Airlines flights between Bangkok and Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. This arrangement provides seamless connectivity for passengers travelling between Africa and Vietnam.

“We are excited to renew this codeshare agreement with our partners Vietnam Airlines,” said Allan Kilavuka, Kenya Airways CEO, at a joint press briefing today. “This allows us to tap into a vibrant, growing market and boost connectivity between East Africa and Southeast Asia.”

The codeshare partnership first launched in 2019 but was suspended during the pandemic as global travel halted. As borders reopen and air traffic gets back to normal, the two Star Alliance members are rebuilding their alliance.

“Vietnam Airlines and Kenya Airways have always shared a common vision to provide our customers with an extensive global network,” said Le Hong Ha, Vietnam Airlines CEO. “Renewing this codeshare highlights our airlines’ mutual goal of serving our customers with excellent connectivity.”

The renewed agreement is well-timed, as travel demand between Africa and Asia continues to increase post-pandemic. Vietnam in particular is emerging as a hotspot for African visitors, drawn by its bustling cities, beautiful landscapes, and affordability.

Experts say the codeshare provides advantages for both airlines and their customers. “For the airlines, it enables them to sell more seats and reach new markets. For customers, it greatly simplifies the travel experience by having just one itinerary on partner flights,” said aviation analyst Simon Musau.

As global travel rebounds, Kenya Airways continues to be proactive in leveraging partnerships. Along with this renewed Vietnam Airlines codeshare, it recently expanded ties with airlines like Air Canada and Caribbean Airlines. The airline is hopeful these collaborations will boost passenger traffic and support tourism and business exchange.

With the new Vietnam Airlines codeshare taking effect immediately, customers can now book seamless connecting itineraries to cities across Vietnam through Kenya Airways and vice versa. This enhanced African-Asian linkage promises to further strengthen economic, diplomatic and social bonds between the two regions.