In a move aimed at easing domestic air travel, RwandAir has unveiled significantly reduced airfare for the Kigali-Kamembe route, the country's sole internal flight path. This year, travelers can enjoy the convenience of a Kigali-Kamembe economy return ticket for just $99, down from its previous rate of up to $180. The strategic decision to slash ticket prices has resulted in a remarkable surge in passenger numbers. Celine Umuhire, RwandAir's Sales Manager at Kamembe Airport, reports a daily average of 25 to 30 passengers utilizing the flight, marking a substantial surge compared to previous statistics. ALSO READ: RwandAir CEO sheds light on high cost of flying in Africa Due to the capacity limitations of Kamembe Airport, our flights can presently accommodate up to 40 passengers. At present, we are consistently carrying around 25 to 30 passengers per flight, a significant increase from the mere five passengers we used to serve, shared Umuhire. RwandAir operates the Kigali-Kamembe route on a daily basis, providing enhanced accessibility for a diverse range of travelers. According to Emmanuel Butera, a consumer protection specialist at the African Civil Aviation Commission, a key agency of the African Union, RwandAir's initiative to reduce domestic travel costs is a commendable step. It paves the way for individuals across various income brackets and professions to partake in air travel, once deemed a luxury exclusively for the affluent. This positive change has stemmed from the government's commendable move to either remove or reduce taxes and charges that once rendered air travel unaffordable for those with modest incomes, Butera explained. He went on to highlight the benefits for consumers, with air travel being faster, safer, and inherently more convenient. For the airline and airports, increased passenger volumes result in improved load factors and higher revenues, as opposed to the past when only a handful of passengers could bear the expenses associated with air travel. The more passengers we have, the more substantial the revenue generated for airports, Butera added. ALSO READ: RwandAir adds new Airbus A330-200 to its fleet Looking ahead, Butera advocated for opening domestic routes to other local carriers. Such competition and increased flight frequencies could further drive down the cost of air travel, creating even more accessible options for travelers. Esperance Nyirantwari, a travel agent affiliated with Continental Sky Travel, emphasized the significance of Rwandans embracing air transport as an integral part of their lives. She urged them to seize the opportunity, particularly given the current substantial reductions in airfare. Beyond business and family visits to Kamembe, exploring the region presents the chance to uncover the splendors of attractions like the Nyungwe Forest National Park, a renowned Rwandan tourist destination. With RwandAir's affordable offerings, these remarkable experiences are now well within reach for all adventurous spirits.
