Virgin Atlantic begins Nairobi flights

Virgin Atlantic started its new service to Nairobi, Kenya over the weekend, its first such flights to the area.

The flights will operate on a daily basis from Heathrow Airport and are predicted to increase visits to the region by about 25 per cent in their first year.

Sir Richard Branson, president of Virgin Atlantic, said that he was "really pleased" with the launch, with regional manager Mike Higgins also welcoming the new service.

"Nairobi is a hub for the whole region and so our flight schedule will seamlessly connect with many flights to neighbouring countries like Uganda and Tanzania, along with connections to the whole of east Africa," Mr Higgins commented.

Last week, the airline also donated a number of motorcycles to Kenya to support the Riders for Health charity, which helps healthcare workers to easily access rural out-of-the-way areas in the region in need of medical support.

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