Jambojet suspendeds Mombasa-Zanzibar flights

Jambojet has suspended its direct flights between Mombasa and Zanzibar, citing rising fuel prices and increased travel costs that have made the route commercially unviable.

The Nairobi-based low-cost airline stopped operating the route in mid-September 2026. According to Jambojet Chief Executive Officer Karanja Ndegwa, the introduction of mandatory travel insurance for travellers entering Tanzania has also contributed to declining passenger numbers. The insurance costs $44 (about KSh5,700) per traveller.

The airline said rising fuel prices had further increased operating costs, forcing it to introduce a 20 per cent fuel surcharge on ticket prices. Higher hotel prices in Zanzibar also contributed to the decline in demand, according to Ndegwa.

Jambojet launched the Mombasa–Zanzibar route in 2024, targeting both leisure and business travellers and providing direct connectivity between the two coastal destinations.

Following the suspension, RwandAir and Safarilink remain among the airlines offering direct flights between Mombasa and Zanzibar. Jambojet continues to operate domestic routes including Mombasa, Diani, Malindi, Lamu, Eldoret and Kisumu.

The airline’s withdrawal comes as it faces broader pressure from rising fuel costs while planning to expand its fleet and regional network. Jambojet has also been preparing to launch flights to Entebbe and potentially Dar es Salaam.