Summary
Kilimanjaro International Airport serves as the gateway to the country’s spectacular northern tourism circuit, offering visitors seamless access to world-famous attractions including Mount Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and Tarangire National Park.
By Our Correspondent | Kilimanjaro
NORTHERN Tanzania’s world-renowned tourism circuit is set to welcome more European visitors following the launch of scheduled flights by Italian carrier Neos to Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), a major boost to the country’s tourism, trade and investment ambitions.
The new service is expected to strengthen direct connectivity between Europe and Tanzania’s premier safari destination, making it easier for international travellers to experience some of Africa’s most celebrated natural wonders while stimulating economic activity across the region.
Speaking during the inaugural launch ceremony, KIA Director Engineer Rehema Myeya described the arrival of Neos as a significant milestone in expanding Tanzania’s global aviation network and enhancing the country’s position as one of Africa’s leading tourism destinations.
“Neos’ decision to launch scheduled flights to Kilimanjaro is a strong vote of confidence in Northern Tanzania. The new route will strengthen tourism, promote business and investment, and deepen economic ties between Tanzania and Europe,”she said.
She noted that Kilimanjaro International Airport serves as the gateway to the country’s spectacular northern tourism circuit, offering visitors seamless access to world-famous attractions including Mount Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and Tarangire National Park.
With easier air access, travellers will enjoy greater convenience in discovering Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes, extraordinary wildlife, rich cultural heritage and authentic safari experiences.
The launch of Neos also increases the number of international airlines operating through KIA to 16, reinforcing the airport’s growing role as one of East Africa’s most important international gateways.
Engineer Myeya said the new route represents far more than an additional flight, describing it as a catalyst for stronger tourism growth, increased investment, expanded business opportunities and the creation of new jobs for local communities.
Neos Station Manager in Zanzibar, Antonella Balestra, commended Tanzania’s favourable investment climate, noting that the country’s supportive aviation policies have enabled the airline to successfully operate in Tanzania for more than two decades.
Meanwhile, KIA Marketing and Research Manager Zefrin Lubuva said the airline will operate weekly flights every Wednesday, providing fresh opportunities for hotels, tour operators, transport providers and other tourism-related businesses across the northern circuit.
She said the new connection is expected to inject fresh momentum into Tanzania’s tourism industry by attracting more high-value international visitors while strengthening trade and people-to-people links between Europe and Tanzania.
The launch of Neos marks another important step in Tanzania’s strategy to expand international air connectivity, positioning the country’s iconic northern circuit as an even more accessible destination for travellers seeking unforgettable wildlife adventures, Africa’s highest peak and some of the world’s most spectacular safari experiences.
