Fastjet Plc, Africa’s cheapest airline, has registered a company, Fastjet Kenya, in a move to acquire the necessary authorization and a license to operate in Kenya.

This is part of a long term plan by the London‐listed airline to offer low‐cost services across Africa. The subsidiary is 51 percent owned by a Kenyan national in line with local airline ownership regulations.

CEO Ed Winter, in a statement, said; “We have submitted a comprehensive application to the authorities who have confirmed that Fastjet Kenya has entered the approval process. We look forward to bringing the Fastjet operation to Kenya, offering our market stimulating fares, our excellent on‐time performance and friendly service.”

The application is yet to be announced for public input, however.

With previous failed attempts to penetrate the Kenyan market, including a joint venture that didn’t work, there are uncertainties about the potential for success in this new move. Other competitors to contend with, if Fastjet Kenya gets its license, will include Jambojet (a subsidiary of Kenya Airways) and Fly540.

By Emmanuel Iruobe