Astral Aviation, a cargo airline based at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, has launched new flights between Africa and China as part of its expansion into the Asian market.
The inaugural flight, departing from Guangzhou and landing in Maputo, Mozambique, marks the airline’s commitment to strengthening trade links between the two continents. CEO Sanjeev Gadhia highlighted that the direct cargo route will serve as a gateway for Chinese goods like electronics and textiles, catering to Mozambique and the broader Southern African market.
Boost in connectivity
This new route is expected to enhance connectivity and meet the growing demand for reliable cargo transportation, contributing to economic growth in both regions. Astral Aviation, which operates 15 aircraft across 50 African countries, plans to introduce more routes between key Asian and African markets. This aligns with the company’s broader strategy to expand globally and offer high-quality service to its clients. Despite the speed of air cargo, many African importers still prefer sea shipping for transporting heavier or specialized goods, as it is often more cost-effective, though slower.
“This new route is part of Astral Aviation’s broader expansion strategy, which aims to enhance global reach and offer unparalleled service to clients. It will enhance connectivity between Asia and Africa and supports the increasing demand for reliable cargo transportation, facilitating the flow of essential goods and contributing to economic growth in both regions,” said Gadhia.