Kenya Airways has started the clearing process for direct flights between Kenya and the United States of America, according to its CEO Mbuvi Ngunze who spoke to The Star.

Kenya Airways is seeking two crucial licenses - the Air Service License which gives it commercial approval and the Air Operating Certificate, which gives it technical authority to operate to the US.

“We have begun the process and will let Kenyans know when we are done. Be patient as we undertake the procedure,” Ngunze said.

According to the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, it will take Kenya Airways up to 8 months to get the necessary clearance to fly directly to the United States, making December 2017 as the possible date for inaugural flight.

“Kenya Airways is currently fast tracking the commercial evaluations and discussions with the relevant authorities to determine the viability and timings of operations to the US. When this is complete, we shall advise,” corporate communications manager Wanjiku Mugo told the Star.

In February this year, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) granted the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Nairobi Category One status, the mandatory status an airport must have to be allowed to handle direct flights to the US.

If the necessary permissions are granted, Kenya Airways hopes to launch the Kenya-US direct flights with its Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner fleet.