As the last quarter of the year approaches, the realization of cheaper flights edges closer to being a reality in Kenya. Earlier on today FastJest announced their first operating base would be in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The first flights are scheduled for the month of November and will see passengers pay as little as $20 for a one-way flight, exclusive of taxes. This translates to KES 1680 (approximately).

The launch of this base will be followed by one in Nairobi.  "We look forward to bringing a great, reliable and affordable service to the people of East Africa." said Ed Winter, Chief Executive FastJet. Success within the East African region will lead to establishment of other operational centres in Accra-Ghana and Luanda-Angola. The company is looking to create a turnover of USD 1billion by using 40 strong fleet to ferry 12 million passengers between cities in Africa.

The A319 airbus boasts a seating capacity of 124 seats with an option of increasing to 156, a consideration most low-cost airlines are making. The airbus is also said to lower operating costs and deliver significant fuel savings of up to 15 per cent. Its approval by the Tanzanian Civil  Aviation Authority could be the start of fierce rivalry with local airlines and cheaper flight costs. FastJet comes at a time when Kenya Airways is looking to launch their low-cost flights via Jambo Jet. This however, depends on approval by the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority.