Air France upgrades Paris–Nairobi route with Airbus A350

Kenya’s position as a key aviation hub in Africa has received a major boost after Air France deployed the state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900 on its Paris–Nairobi route.

The aircraft, which landed in Nairobi on Monday for its maiden voyage, replaces the Boeing 787-9 and offers a 16% increase in seat capacity.

The move signals growing confidence in Kenya’s aviation and tourism sectors, with Air France citing rising passenger numbers over the past three years.

“This aircraft brings about 16% more seats to Kenya, meaning we are ready to accommodate the growing demand for travel between Nairobi, Paris, and wider Europe,” said Joris Holtus, Air France-KLM’s General Manager for East and Southern Africa, Nigeria, and Ghana.

The introduction of the A350 not only improves passenger experience, with modern cabin design, more space, and adaptive lighting, but also cuts fuel use by 25%, reinforcing Air France’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

Holtus added that the aircraft fits into two pillars of Air France’s global strategy: premiumisation, by offering better services across all cabin classes, and decarbonisation, through the deployment of fuel-efficient aircraft.

Air France currently operates three weekly flights on the Paris–Nairobi route. The upgrade to the A350, one of the most fuel-efficient widebody aircraft in the world, positions Nairobi as a growing gateway for international travel and trade in East Africa.

“This move underscores our long-term commitment to the Kenyan market and Nairobi’s strategic role in our African network,” said Hildabeta Amiani, Air France-KLM’s Country Sales Manager for Kenya.

The change comes at a time when global air travel is surging. According to IATA, the industry is projected to carry a record 4.99 billion passengers in 2025, with Africa showing strong recovery momentum. The continent saw a 13.2% increase in revenue per kilometre last year, boosted by renewed tourism and business activity.

With over 38 Airbus A350s already in its global fleet, Air France plans to make 50% of its aircraft next-generation models by 2025 and 80% by 2030. The Nairobi deployment reflects Kenya’s rising status as a priority destination for modern aviation investments.